



FHESKNTED BY 



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DIARY AND LETTERS 

OF THE 

Reverend Joseph W. Cook 

MISSIONARY TO CHEYENNE 



DIARY AND LETTERS 



OF THE 



Reverend Joseph W. Cook 

MISSIONARY TO CHEYENNE * 



ARRANGED BY THE 

RT. REV. N. S. THOMAS, S. T. D. 



Laramie Wyoming: 

The Laramie Republican Company 

Printers and Binders 

1919 




THE REV. JOSEPH W. COOK 

Missionary. 1868-1870 



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PREFACE 



While acting as special preacher at the noonday 
service in Minneapolis, Minn., during the Lenten 
season of 1916, it was my good fortune to meet Miss 
Charlotte Everett Cook, daughter of the Rev. 
Joseph W. Cook, first resident missionary in Chey- 
enne and founder of the Church therein. 

As a result of the meeting. Miss Cook presented 
me with what I suspect will prove to be the most 
valuable historical document relating to the early 
history of Cheyenne now in existence. It consists 
of a small quarto copy book of some 120 pages, in 
which is neatly written, in his own hand, the copy 
of his letters to Bishops Clarkson and Randall, re- 
lating to the condition of things in Cheyenne during 
the years 1868 and 1869. The interesting con- 
troversy between Mr. Cook and Bishop Randall, as 
to the proper jurisdiction in which Wyoming in 
general and Cheyenne in particular was located, 
arose from the fact that in the general convention 
of the Church held in Philadelphia in 1865, 
Bishop Randall had been elected to the Bishopric 
of Colorado, Wyoming and New Mexico. He was 
subsequently consecrated on December 28, 1865, and 
went to Denver to take up his duties from that 
point. On reaching Denver, he found that, owing 
to some failure on the part of Congress to make 
appropriation for its expenses, the territory of Wyo- 
ming had no existence in fact; therefore, still be- 
longed to the territory of Dakota, from which it 



was to have been set off. Bishop Clarkson had 
been elected as Bishop of Nebraska and Dakota, 
and as such presumed that his jurisdiction extended 
over what was to be the territory of Wyoming until 
such time as the new territory to be known as Wyo- 
ming became an accomphshed fact. 

The interesting considerations of a personal na- 
ture set forth in the letters are unfortunately one- 
sided, as the letters of Bishop Randall and Bishop 
Clarkson, if still existing, have not as vet come to 
light. 

Mr. Cook not only copied his more important 
letters, but he kept a diary as well. That portion of 
his diary relating to his sojourn in Cheyenne prior to 
his departure to Dakota, where he passed the re- 
mander of his life as a missionary to the Sioux, 
his daughter most kindly has had copied and sent 
to me. In publishing it herewith, in' connection with 
these letters, it seemed fitting to publish the diary 
as it was written and to insert the leters under the 
appropriate date, so that the letter when read should 
be preceded with its historical setting. 

In addition to these letters of Mr. Cook, I have 
added as an appendix two letters of his contempo- 
rary at Laramie, the Rev. John Cornell, who is still 
living, and this interesting correspondence dovetails 
admirably into the diary and letters. Taken to- 
gether, they form the one first-hand written docu- 
ments of the origin of the Church in Wyoming now 
known to .me. 

The subject matter contained in the volumn has 
already appeared serially in The Wyoming 
Churchman during the years 1917 and 1918. The 
form in which the diar>' and letters are related to 
each other constitute the onlv difference. 

N. S. Thomas. 

—6- 



Diary of the Rev. Joseph W. Cook, 
Missionary to Cheyenne, and Let- 
ters to the Rt. Rev. R. H. Clarkson, 
D. D., and the Rt. Rev. Geo. M. 
Randall, D. D., kindly furnished by 
his Daughter, Miss Charlotte Everett 
Cook. 

MR. cook's DIARY^ 1 868. 

Jan. 14th. Crossing the dreary, desolate plains, 
stretching on every side far beyond the reach of 
human vision ; mottled with black from the annual 
burning of the grass ; a tree seen once only in many 
miles until we came to Pine Bluffs, and then only 
scattered thinly over the hills; seldom a habita- 
tion except the stations about every twenty miles. 
The wind blew! hard and cold all day. Talked con- 
siderable to three Blue Noses who were going out 
to the mines to seek their fortunes. There was but 
one female on the train, and she only a part of the 
way. Arrived in Cheyenne about 7 :oo o'clock and 
finding Mr. Chas. Sherman's quarters at the bank, 
proceeded there forthwiith. Was not in. But Mr. 
Berger, his associate, received me kindly, and I 
waited for him. When he returned I delivered my 
letter from Bishop Clarkson and received a very 
kind and pleasant welcome. He begged me to cast 
in my lot wiith him here, as he had an empty bed. I 



was very glad indeed, and highly appreciated his 
kindness. 

Jan. 15th. Took boarding at Ford's saloon op- 
posite at $15.00 per week. After breakfast walked 
out to view the place, and was amazed at what had 
been accomplished in five months ! It is wonderful. 
The air was quite cold, but I found that I did not 
suffer from it as in the east, but that on the con- 
trary it was delightful. Went to a house to inquire 
the way to the fort, and I stumbled upon a church- 
woman, Mrs. Morrow, who was rejoiced to see a 
clergyman of the church. Sat and talked with her 
for a good while, and did not go to the fort, as it is 
some distance ofif and it was late. 

Jan. 1 6th. Wrote long letter to Bishop Clark- 
son giving an account of my trip and misfortune in 
the matter of the pocket-book, and my first impres- 
sion of Cheyenne. Delivered my letter to Mr. Reed, 
engineer of construction on U. P. R. R., and he gave 
me a hearty, kindly welcome. Took box of roots 
and plants which I brought with me to ask Mrs. 
Morrow to store them in her cellar. Called on Mrs. 
Street, whom I found a baptized member of the 
Church, also Mrs. Halliday, a communicant, and 
her mother. 

Jan. 17th. Called on Mr. Whitehead's family. 
Found that gentleman away, but his sister-in-law 
received me kindly and claims to be a churchwoman. 
One of the most charming winter days I ever ex- 
perienced. An overcoat was superfluous, and yet 
the little snow and ice in the streets melted but lit- 
tle. Mr. Reed kindly invited me down to smoke a 
cigar, and I had a good deal of a talk with him 
about the prospects of the Church, and also about 
Cheyenne and the railroad. Invited me to go to the 
end of the line with him tomorrow, but was obliged 

—8— 



to decline on account of necessity of preparing some- 
thing for Sunday. We have been in a crowded 
state at the bank for the last two nights. No less 
than seven of us ! Four in beds, one on lounge and 
twb on the floor. Of course, it was impossible to 
accomplish anything, and even devotions were al- 
most impossible. Mr. Reed kindly invited me to 
make use of his quarters to do my literary work in, 
which I gratefully accepted. Mr. Berger asked me 
if I would like to take a look at what W0.s to be 
seen here. I intimated that I would, and so he con- 
ducted me through the great gambhng hell opposite, 
which was crowided with poor simple souls selling 
themselves to the devil. It made my heart ache to 
see them so earnest in their destruction. We 
went also to the museum, but I saw nothing out of 
the wlay there until he directed me to a stereoscope 
in one corner, where upon one turn I found obscene 
and lascivious pictures, and there stood a man (?) 
feasting his eyes upon them ! 

letter to bishop clarkson. 

Cheyenne, Dakota Territory, 

Friday, Jan. 17th, 1868. 
Right Rev. R. H. Clark son. 

My Dear Bishop : — I started from Philadelphia 
on New Year's night after having had the misfortune 
to lose my pocket-book on my way to the depot. 
I think from the circumstances it could not have 
been picked, but that it fell out of my pocket and 
was picked up by the conductor of the street car. 
I went to the office and made every effort to discover 
it, but, of course, the conductor knew nothing of it. 
There was about $150 in it. My kind friend, Mr. 
Fallen, said he wiould take further measures for re- 
covering it, and as I had a ticket to Cincinnati and 

—9— 



had left $20 with his son to pay a balance on a tail- 
or's bill, he advised me to take that and go on, and 
if the pocket-book was not recovered by the time I 
left Ohio, to obtain funds from my cousin in Cin- 
cinnati. So I came west on the next train. I spent 
the second Sunday after Christmas in Springfield, 
O., and then went on to Cincinnati. There was no 
news of the pocket-book, and so I borrowed $100 
from Mr. Hamlin and started west. I reached Chi- 
cago on Thursday the 9th inst. Presented your let- 
ter to Mr. Dunlap at his house where I was re- 
ceived with the utmost kindness, and very agree- 
ably entertained, as they urged me to stay until the 
night train. Mr. Dunlap gave me a pass to Omaha. 
I arrived in Omaha on Saturday, nth inst. and 
presented your letter to the rector. Mr. Redick in- 
vited me to take up my quarters with him, which I 
did. I remained in Omaha over Sunday and as- 
sisted the rector at morning prayer and again in the 
evening, and preached. Also assisted Mr. Tongue 
at the mission and preached. On Monday evening I 
bade adieu to Omaha and entered upon the last stage 
of my journey, for which Mr. Van Antwerp very 
readily obtained me a pass. A snow storm had been 
raging all day in Omaha, and we were somewhat 
fearful of being snowed up on the plains. But the 
snow grew less and less as we progressed until on 
this side there was scarcely any to be seen. I 
reached here in safety on Tuesday evening and w&s 
asked to take a seat in a "buss" for the "only first 
class hotel in the city." I was landed at the Rollins 
House, and on entering the place found myself in 
a billiard room with a large and glittering bar on 
one side. I ascertaned the whereabouts of Mr. 
Sherman, which was close by, and proceeded at 
once to his quarters in the bank and presented your 



letter. He received me very kindly and begged me 
to take up my quarters with him as he had an extra 
bed. There are twio others in the bank. Besides the 
large office there is a small sitting room in the rear, 
and a small bed room with two beds. This is the 
headquarters of quite a number of persons, and of 
course very little quiet can possibly be obtained in 
any part of the place. Last night, e. g., there were 
no less than seven of us, four in bed and three 
upon the floor. At present I am taking my meals 
at a restaurant at the rate of $15 per week for 
''square meals." I am told that a room with a fire 
at the hotels, together with board, cannot be obtained 
at less than $26 per week. At present I suppose I 
cannot do better. But, it may be, after I have 
got somewhat better acquainted, that I may be 
able to find some little nook where I may be able 
to study and write with some comfort. Had I the 
money I would put up a little house and bring my 
sister out, for 1 think that we can keep house cheap- 
er than 1 can board. I presented your letter to Mr. 
Reed and found him very pleasant and seemingly 
very glad to see me and much interested in our 
church project. And now as to those matters I will 
try to give you my first view of the situation. Mr. 
Reed told me he has secured two lots for the church 
in a very good situation, on the school block. I have 
discovered several communicants of the Church and 
quite a number who are nominally church people 
and attached to our worship. All seem delighted to 
see me and rejoice that something is to be done to 
affect the terrible state of things in this worst of 
all places under the sun. Mr. Reed was to have 
met Mr. Sherman and myself yesterday to talk over 
matters and to take steps towlard providing a place 
for our services. But he did not come. I met Dr. 



■II- 



Scott, the ^lethodist local preacher, and he informed 
me that he has the use of the city hall on Sunday 
afternoons and evenings. And that he had left the 
mornings open, thinking someone would be along 
shortly with some other kind of service. He is 
engaged in a thriving business in the canned fruit 
and furniture line, and cannot pursue both business 
and preaching, and so expects some regular preacher 
here after a while. There is a nice school house 
here already finished — but the carpenters have a lien 
on the buildings and will not allow it to be used for 
amthing until it is cleared. The ^Methodists in- 
formed me that they had engaged it for sendees as 
soon as it can be released. Mr. Sherman has just 
informed me that he and Air. Reed met and talked 
some over matters last night, and that they are of 
opinion that the school house may be bought, and 
he expects to inquire into it today. It would be very 
well adapted to our purposes for the present. I will 
write you again shortly and let you know the state 
of the case. I sent through by express my books, 
making a moderate sized box, and two trunks filled 
wjith bed clothing, etc. I have received the bill from 
Wells Fargo & Co., and the amount is $94 ! It is an 
outrageous bill, and I have not the means to release 
the goods. The husband of one of our communi- 
cants, Mr. Morrow, is in their office here, and he 
may be able to get some reduction. I have not yet 
seen him as he has been absent. But I fear the 
reduction will be small. 

I think there are somewhere about four thousand 
people here. The amount that has been done here 
is wonderful, and the activity of the place is sur- 
prising, and the wickedness is unimaginable and ap- 
palling. This Is the great centre for gamblers of all 
shades, and roughs, and troops of lewd women, and 



■12 — 



bull-whackers. Almost every other house is a 
drinking saloon, gambling house, restaurant, dance 
house or bawdy. In the east, as a general thing, vice 
is obliged in some measure to keep somewhat in the 
dark, and a cloak of refinetiient is thrown over it. 
But here all is open and above board, and the eyes 
and ears are assailed at every turn. Last evening 
right by us here was a terrible shooting affray, and 
one poor wretch was shot through the jaw and an- 
other through the arm. A large wagon train came 
in today, and we shall be likely to have a repetition 
of last night's deeds and perhaps worse. If there 
ever was a place which needed a standard lifted up 
against the enemy, it is here. I feel almost power- 
less in the presence of it. But I realize that I am 
not sent in dependent on my own strength, but com- 
missioned by the Holy Ghost and the Church of 
God. I must open my commission even here, and 
proclaim the Gospel of the grace of God whether 
these poor souls will hear or whether they will for- 
bear, and depend upon Him to bless my humble ef- 
forts. You are probably aware that Rev. Mr. Tut- 
tle has been transferred to the fort here. He is ex- 
pected today or tomorrow. Although I should at 
once have been rendered comfortable had I myself 
been appointed, and the salary would have enabled 
me to get well settled in preparation for the work 
here, yet I doubt not it is all right. And I confess 
that I feel much more comfortable and encouraged 
by the fact that I have a clerical brother near upon 
whom I may depend for sympathy and advice, than 
though I were isolated as I feared I would be, 

I am charmed with the climate here. With the 
exception of those searching winds which go to the 
very bone, it is delightful. Today is one of the 
most beautiful days I ever saw. The place is not 

—13— 



protected from the winds as we supposed. Long's 
Peak, 70 or 80 miles distant, is in sight, and the 
Rocky range glittering white with snow in the clear 
sunshine. We seem to be still on the plains, al- 
though at a very high elevation. I don't believe 
this can be an agricultural region. It probably 
would be with the means of irrigation, but Crow 
Creek, on which we are situated, is quite small. But 
the Cache la Poudre above may do something for 
us. There is not to be seen a single tree within 
many miles of us. 

I hope to be able to give you something more defi- 
nite with reference to church matters in a few' days. 

May God bless and prosper you, my dear Bishop, 
and hasten your journey to us. 

With sincere regards, yours in Jesus Christ and 
his Church, ' Joseph W. Cook. 

Jan. i8th. Beautiful day, but the wind made it 
unpleasant to be out. Went and took possession of 
Mr. Reed's quarters and wrote sermon on I Cor. 
11:2. Showing what I believed St. Paul's policy 
was in licentious Corinth; and that I proposed to 
follow the same course in my ministry here, viz., 
to combat sin by presenting the old truths of the 
Gospel and the Church of Christ, and striving not 
to be drawn aside by side issues. Mr. Sherman was 
able to get the school house for our services. I put 
a couple of notices in the papers announcing morn- 
ing service. Spent the evening in various work. 
W^ent to Mrs. Morrow's to ascertain whether Rev. 
Mr. Tuttle, the Chaplain of the Post, had arrived. 
He got there just as I was leaving. Sat and talked 
with him awhile. Asked him to assist me tomorrow. 

Sunday, 2nd after Epiph., Jan. 19th. Beautiful 
day, and the air was delicious. Prepared for service 
and went to the school house. Mr. Tuttle was 

—14— 



called upon to attend the funeral of a poor young 
woman who died from an overdose of morphine, 
and so could not be with me. Sent me his Mission 
Services to use. Mr. Test brought them, and I was 
glad to make his acquaintance. Begged me to go 
and see him. Put on my surplice and celebrated 
divine service, and preached. Seventy-five persons 
present, joined in responses heartily. Was fortun- 
ate in starting familiar tunes and the whole congre- 
gation sang with a will. Was glad to discover some 
fine voices. Several persons came to me after ser- 
vice to express their pleasure, and to give me God- 
speed. Headache came on after dinner and I was 
quite unwell. Probably bilious from eating three 
''square" meals a day. Took considerable of a 
walk with Messrs. Berger, Ruth and Glover. Af- 
terwards lay down upon the lounge and Mr. Ruth 
came again and we talked over many points of sci- 
ence and Christianity. Went to Mrs. Morrow's to 
tea with Mr. and Mrs. Tuttle and spent evening in 
pleasant conversation. We started for P. O. and 
passing, stopped at school house a minute to see 
what the Methodists were doing. Found the house 
well filled, and Dr. Scott ranting. Called at Dr. 
Latham's office and Mr. Tuttle introduced me to him. 
After left Mr. Tuttle and called in at Messrs. Adams 
and Glover's drug store and talked awhile. Sung a 
great deal with Mr. Sherman today, and it has been 
very pleasant. 

Jan. 20th. Another charming day. I have never 
experienced anything like it in the East. The cH- 
mate is magnificent. Mr. Reed called and asked me 
to go down to this office, which I did. Sat some 
time. Gave his judgment for an immediate organ- 
ization of the Church here. Wrote letter to Bishop 
Clarkson telling him of the progress of affairs here. 

—15— 



Wrote up journal. Walked with Mr. Berger and 
called upon Mr. Test, Mr. Paine, and Mr. Abbott. 
Dr. Alden, Post Surgeon, called on me, and told 
me what he had done towards securing subscrip- 
tions for the Church at Fort Russell. Found him 
very agreeable. Mrs. Street called to give me an 
invitation to a donation party to be given to Dr. 
Scott, the Methodist local preacher. Could not 
bring myself to the point to go, having such a dis- 
gust for such things. Wrote letter in answer to one 
from Mr. James Fuller inquiring about Cheyenne 
as a place for him to establish himself. 

letter to bishop clarkson. 

Chkyenne;, Dakota Te:rritory, 

Jan. 20th, 1868. 
Rt. Rev. R. H. Clarkson, D. D. 

My De:ar Bishop : — We succeeded in obtaining 
the school house for our services yesterday morn- 
ing. It had been nicely cleaned, and the only dis- 
comfort that wie had was that it was yet a little 
damp. The day was charming and auspicious for 
the commencement of our public work here. We 
did not know definitely that we could obtain the 
house till the afternoon of Saturday so there was but 
little time to give notice. I made a few calls and 
mentioned it, and put notices in two of our daily 
papers. Yet there were a great many who did not 
learn of it until after the service. Rev. Mr. Tuttle 
arrived on Saturday night, and I invited him to as- 
sist in inaugurating the services here, which he in- 
tended to do. But Mr. Rollins, keeping a hotel 
here, and an old member of Mr. Tuttle's parish in 
Illinois, sent to request him to officiate at the fune- 
ral of ^ young woman who died from the effects of 
an overdose of morphia. So I was alone. He how- 

—16— 



ever lent me his mission services (and by the w^ay 
I don't know what I shall do without some of those 
services). I have about thirty prayer books, but 
they are not sufficient. Since writing the above, Mr. 
Tuttle has been in and informs me that for the 
present he can divide with me the mission services 
which he has, about 200, which will relieve me of 
the difficulty. 

There were about 75 persons present yesterday, 
and they entered heartily into the services, respond- 
ing well and conforming to the postures. The sing- 
ing I conducted myself. I sang tunes which I sup- 
posed Would be familiar, and I was surprised and 
delighted, for it seemed as though everyone present 
joined in and sang with a will. I discovered that 
there was considerable musical talent in the congre- 
gation, and I have hopes of shortly forming a good 
choir which, of course, will add to the interest of 
the services. I preached a short sermon from i 
Cor. II :2 — "For I determined not to knozv anything 
among you save Jusus Christ, and Him Crucified." 
Simply explaining what I conceived to be St. Paul's 
policy in wicked, licentious Corinth, and stating the 
object for which I am here, and my determination, by 
the help of God, to pursue the same policy with the 
Apostle, and to present the old facts of the Gospel 
and the Church of Christ, believing that they are 
still filled with divine energy to the pulling dow^n of 
the strongholds of sin, Satan and death. A number 
came to me after service to welcome me and bid 
me God speed. 

I was invited to attend the Methodist services in 
the evening, but aside from being quite unwell, which 
would of itself have prevented me, I thought it best 
to take that stand which would sooner or later have 
to be taken, and so did not attend. Mr. Tuttle and 



iy~ 



myself had occasion to pass the school house during 
their meeting, and we found it filled respectably. 
I hope during the week to obtain a place in which 
to hold our Sunday school. To the surprise of my- 
self and many others the city was remarkably quiet 
yesterday. Many of the shops were closed, and 
numbers of persons were to be seen on the streets 
who had seemingly made an effort to recall some of 
the associations of Sunday and civilization by chang- 
ing their clothes and tidying up, and trying to enjoy 
a little rest from the turmoil and excitement of the 
week. The hurdy-gurdy at the "Museum" ceased 
its daily and nightly groaning and grinding, to the 
great relief of the nerves of many who have some 
music in their souls, and the band which by day and 
night calls multitudes of poor simple souls to the 
great gambhng "Hell" opposite paid respect to the 
Lord's Day also. 

There are a great many people here who are 
either Churchmen or accustomed to our services and 
in sympathy with us. I am surprised at the number 
whom I have already discovered. And as is usual, 
they are the more intelligent and respectable of the 
population. The editors of two of the three daily 
papers are nominally Churchmen, and are very kind 
in offering their papers as channels of communica- 
tion, to give notices, etc. 

In talking with Mr. Reed this morning, he gives 
his judgment for an organization at once, instead of 
w'aiting until we have had services for a while. Mr. 
Tuttle thinks he will be able to offer me a home at 
his quarters as soon as he gets settled, which will 
both give me a quieter place for study and writing, 
and also, probably, very much reduce my expenses. 
I shall be sorry to be removed out of the city — about 
two and a half miles — but it is probably the 'best I 

— 18— 



can do for the present in the crowded state of this 
wonderful place. 

I hope you will be able to come to us as soon as 
you possibly can after your return to your juris- 
diction. Yours in Christ and His Church, 

Joseph W. Cook. 

P. S. Mr. Sherman desires me to present his re- 
gards to you. I find him very kind and pleasant, 
and both he and Mr. Berger, who is associated with 
him in the bank, have quite prevented me from be- 
coming low-spirited, and I feel greatly indebted to 
them for their kindness. J. W. C. 

Jan. 2ist. Finished a letter to Mr. Davis. Major 
Woolley called on me and talked over Church mat- 
ters and offered his services for furthering the in- 
terests of Church here. Was very much pleased 
with the Major. Called on Mrs. Kuykendall to in- 
quire after her brother. Called at Mrs. Marten's, 
Taylor's, Shakespeare's, Manion's, and Cornforth's. 
Called on Mrs. Tuttle at the Rollins house, and had 
the pleasure of meeting also Mrs. Doherty. 

Jan. 22nd. Nice day with the exception of the 
wind. Wrote to Mrs. Smith. Major Woolley called 
and presened Dr. Alden's compliments and an invi- 
tation to take up my quarters with him. Accepted 
the same. Called on Dr. Moore (grandson of Bishop 
Moore of Virginia)] and met also his partner. Dr. 
Heimberger, an Israelite. Called on Mrs. Gardner 
and not finding her in, went into her husband's 
saloon and talked with him awhile. Called on Mrs. 
Street and had a long talk on Church matters. Pre- 
pared my trunks for transfer to the Fort. Suffering 
a good deal from cold and sore throat. 

Jan. 23rd. Beautiful day. Letter from Rev. Cort- 
landt Whitehead of Black Hawk, Colorado, an- 

—19— 



nouncing that I have been transferred to Colorado 
and congratulating me upon same. Gives me very 
kind invitation to share his bed and board, etc. 
Cannot but consider it a calamity that Cheyenne 
has been transferred just nozv. I hope for the best, 
but I fear. Wrote to Mr. Whitehead. Election day 
in Cheyenne, for city government. Considerable ex- 
citement. Mr. Sherman running for Treasurer. 
There was some shooting on the street today and 
so I did not go out until the streets were cleared by 
the presence of cavalry from Fort Russell. Major 
Woolley called to say Dr. Alden could not be ready 
for me until tomorrow. New clerk arrived at Bank 
from Omaha, Mr. Rhous, a German. Had consid- 
erable talk with Mr. Maxwell, a correspondent of 
a Cincinnati paper, on religious subjects, especially 
that of church unity. 

Jan. 24th. Most beautiful day. Wrote to Dr. 
Irving, Secretary Board of Missions, remonstrating 
against being transferred to Colorado just now, and 
giving my reasons. Wrote to Rev. Mr. Van Antwerp 
with reference to a cabinet organ, as a Mr. Smith 
came in today to make my accquaintance and offer 
his services to get up a choir. A man called to ask 
me to go to the Hospital to see a man by the name of 
Aiken, who wishes to see an Episcopal clergyman. 
Went round and received a welcome from Dr. Irwin 
in charge, whom I found friendly to the Church and 
interested in the establishing of services here. The 
man was suffering from tubercles in his lungs. Was 
quite penitent and anxious to do better, as he has 
been a wanderer both in body and soul. Talked and 
prayed with him and he seemed comforted. Major 
Woolley called with Dr. Alden to take me out to the 
Fort and I came with them. Established myself 
with the Doctor in his quarters, and then dined with 

— 20 — ■ 



Major Woolley and his wife and family of clerks. 
Dr. Alden took me to his hospital and showed me 
the Fort. Called on Brother Tuttle and wife at Gen- 
eral's headquarters. At home, commenced reading 
"Great Missionaries," and had a quiet evening. Col- 
onel Bartlett, son of Prof. Bartlett of West Point, 
called. Also letter from Brother Rogers of Austin, 
Texas, inquiring after me and wishing much to hear 
from me. He has been very successful at Austin, 
but yet does not count it his home. Feels that his 
work is to establish churches. 

Jan. 25th. Did not get to bed until midnight. 
Slept very well in my new bed. Doctor introduced 
me to Brown's mess room at 9 o'clock. Immediately 
after Major Woolley drove up and invited me to ride 
down town with him and I embraced the opportunity 
to go down to Bank for rest of my things. Troubled 
at finding Mr. Sherman very moody. Did not say 
a word of welcome. Spent rest of evening in read- 
ing and preparing for Sunday. Techman (Doctor's 
man, a German) showed me some wolf skins and 
proposed to get me some. In afternoon took a walk 
northward, hoping to reach a little line of hills, but 
the distance of objects on these plains is so decep- 
tive that I walked until I was tired without actually 
reaching them. I was surprised to find such num- 
bers of cactus on the plains ; supposed we were far 
north of them. Found little snow bird which could 
not fly and brought it home, thinking I would take 
care of it till it got well. Put it in Techman's room, 
but Miss Puss during the evening slipped in with me 
and captured him and made a nice meal. Snowed 
fiercely most all evening. 

Sunday, 3rd after Epiph., Jan. 26th. Party in- 
tended to go down to Cheyenne, but looked so 
threatening this morning that no one but myself 

— 21 — 



went down. There were only about twenty persons 
there. Seemed to enjoy the services. Went to 
Bank afterwards and found Mr. Berger suffering 
from rheumatism. Received letter from Rev. Mr. 
Tolman wondering at my move, wishing to know the 
reason of it, and regretting that he had not been 
able to carry out his long-cherished wish to have 
me near himself. Rode out to Colonel Carling's, 
having an invitation to dine there, and expecting to 
find Dr. Alden there. But had not arrived, so had 
to introduce myself and was received very pleas- 
antly. Doctor did not arrive till late. Spent a very 
pleasant afternoon with the Colonel and his wife. 
Sent us home in his ambulance. Captain Pierce 
spent evening with us. 

Jan. 27th. Doctor walked down to Colonel Carl- 
ing's with us and I went on to Cheyenne. Was 
pretty tired when I arrived. Wrote couple of busi- 
ness letters and then went round to Hospital. Dr. 
Irwin talked with me a while, and I invited him to 
the meeting of those interested in the Church which 
is called at the Bank tonight. I went into the wards 
and talked a little with the patients, and distributed 
some tracts and papers. Called on Messrs. Wil- 
Hams, Whitehead, Street, Comforth, Rogers, Bedell, 
Gardener, Reed, Shakespeare and Morrow, to in- 
vite them to the meeting. Mr. Sherman was very 
pleasant today. Took tea with Mr. Berger. After 
tea about twenty gentlemen assembled to consult 
about the Church. I was called to the chair and a 
resolution was offered looking to an organization of 
the parish. Called its name St. Mark's Church, 
Cheyenne. Vestry of seven was elected, consisting 
of Messrs. Reed, Judge Ford, Colonel Carling, Ma- 
jor Woolley, Dr. Alden, Mr. Street and Mr. Chas, 
Sherman. Vestry chose Mr. Reed and I chose Col- 

— 22 — 



onel Carling as the Wardens. Building Committee, 
or rather Committee of Whole to solicit subscrip- 
tions, was resolved. Mr. Reed promised to get all 
(the stone and heavy timber which we would need 
from the Black Hills, and bring it free of cost ; and 
to get our lumber over the Union Pacific railroad 
free of charge. Colonel Carling would do all the 
hauling and furnish the architect. Several hundred 
dollars were subscribed on the spot. Mr. Cornforth 
was the only one who objected to the project — 
thought we were crazy. His idea was that they 
should first see if they were able to support a clergy- 
man; that clergyman should work around among 
the people first, for some time, and then if thought 
best should endeavor to build a church ! No one 
sympathized with him, but they assured him they 
were not going to let me starve. However, as he 
had started the matter of support, the gentlemen at 
once subscribed $225.00 toward the first quarter's 
salary. When this subject came up for discussion, I 
called Judge Ford to the chair, as it was a delicate 
position for me to occupy, and the gentlemen would 
discuss it more freely in my absence. Sent com- 
mittee to me to inquire upon what I thought I could 
live at present. Told them on what terms I came. 
They suggested $100.00 per month for the present, 
saying they thought I ought to have $2,500.00 per 
annum ultimately. But for the sake of urging on 
the church building was willing to take the other for 
the present. Thought me very easy in my demands. 
There was a great deal of enthusiasm in the meeting, 
more than I ever saw in any similar meeting ; and it 
was very gratifying and delightful. Rode out with 
Colonel Carling, Dr. Alden and Major Woolley. 
Extremely cold tonight. 



—23— 



Jan. 28th. Wrote long letter to Bishop Clarkson, 
giving account of last night's doings. Also to Rev. 
Mr. Childs to tell him about the wine which I sent 
to the Episcopal Hospital and which has not yet 
been sent for, and to ask him to have it sent for. 
Engaged to go down to Colonel Carling's with Doc- 
tor, but it has been so fiercely cold and the wind 
blowing so that we had to stay at home. After 
dinner called with Doctor upon General Stevens, 
Commander of the Post. Afterwards went on in- 
vitation to Major V/oolley's to meet Captain and 
Mrs. Ball and to eat some oysters. Found Captain 
and Mrs. Ball very agreeable people. 

lkttkr to bishop randall. 

Cheyenne:, Dakota Territory, 

Jan. 28th, 1868. . 
Rt. Rev. Geo. M. Randall, D. D., 
Bishop of Colorado, etc. 

Rt. Rev. and Dear Sir : — I have been informed 
by Rev. Mr. Whitehead that Cheyenne and myself 
have been transferred from the jurisdiction of 
Bishop Clarkson to that of the Bishop of Colorado. 

I now write simply to let you know the state of 
the case, leaving to you and the proper authorities 
the decision. 

Against yourself personally neither I nor any here 
can have any ground for complaint, I apprehend. I 
myself cannot but admire the energy and devotion 
which you have displayed in the difficult field over 
which you have been placed. Besides, I have felt 
pride in the high character which you bear in the 
Church and before the world. I could have no ob- 
jection, and have not an objection to ofifer against 
being under your jurisdiction. I should be pleased 
to have my Bishop so much nearer than Bishop 

—24— 



Clarkson can be; and knowing two of your clergy, 
it would be very pleasant for me to be closely asso- 
ciated with them ; and I hope I may be ultimately. 
But in the present history of Cheyenne, and the ef- 
fort to establish the Church here, it is very neces- 
sary for its well and prosperous being that nothing 
be done to dampen the ardor with which the enter- 
prise has been undertaken. Those most active in 
the matter here are personal friends of Bishop 
Clarkson, and several have been members of his 
Church and congregation in Chicago. There are 
quite a number of others from Chicago who have 
a high personal regard for him. With yourself 
they have not the pleasure of acquaintance. Na- 
turally they feel apprehensive for the welfare of 
the Church at being transferred to an unknown 
chief. Some have said it would be impossible to 
feel the same interest should they be transferred, 
and it is important to have the full interest and co- 
operation of all. Besides, Bishop Clarkson has al- 
ready personally interested a number of persons 
here in the matter, and has put in train certain in- 
terests at the East to help on the enterprise ; and 
through him we hope and have a good prospect of 
gaining certain other points nearer home by which 
we expect to be very materially helped. We know 
nothing of the w^ays and means at your command 
for helping us, and it would take some time to ascer- 
tain. In the meantime our efforts must wait. And 
we deem it of importance that we act promptly and 
quickly in order that we may keep the prominent and 
important position which we have taken here as the 
first Church organization and we hope to have the 
first Church building. I think most decidedly, with 
the kindest feelings personally towards yourself, and 
the deepest respect for you, that a transfer just at 

—25— 



this time is most unfortunate for the interests of the 
Church here. After the present work of building 
is accompHshed I hope the transfer may be made for 
many reasons. I have written frankly; and I pray 
you may receive it in the spirit in which I have 
spoken. I believe I am simply seeking the glory of 
God, and the furtherance of the Church of Christ. 
Hoping soon to have the pleasure of your ac- 
quaintance, I am, Rt. Rev. Sir, 

Yours very truly, 
JosKPH W. Cook. 

Jan. 29th. Towards noon Captain and Mrs. Ball 
called to take Doctor and myself down to Colonel 
Carling's camp to talk with the architect about a 
plan for the church. Met Mr. Richards there, chief 
carpenter, and a churchman. He is interested and 
proposes to do work in his shop for the church, and 
has been thinking with others there of getting up a 
chancel window, and would make the chancel furni- 
ture. For these favors I thank God. Called at 
Colonel's and did not find him at home. Went with 
Doctor to see a couple of patients to whom he intro- 
duced me. Although it is milder than yesterday, the 
wind blew so Doctor thought best for me to return 
home instead of go-ing to town as I expected. Com- 
menced letter American Churchman. Saw ^Ir. Tut- 
tle about getting the plans of a church at Harlem, 
111., for own use, and Up John's work on churches, 
both of which he sent for immediately. After dinner 
went with Doctor into the officers' billiard room and 
watched the games a little while. Doctor gave me a 
cigar which made me quite sick so that I was worth- 
less most of evening. Captain Pierce was in a while. 
Read synopsis of report of Indian Commissioners to 
Congress, and heartily approve their suggestions. 
God grant they may be carried out. 

—2^- 



Jan. 30th. Walked down to Cheyenne. Called at 
bank and found Mr. Berger much better of his ail- 
ments. Called on Messrs. Smith, one of them a 
churchman. Visited hospital and after talking 
awhile in the lower ward w^as introduced upstairs to 
the city part. I was very much distressed to find 
that in numbers of cases two sick men occupied one 
bed ! A thing I have never seen before ; and hor- 
rible to think of. Found a youth there — Walker by 
name — from Buffalo, who looked quite delicate, and 
whose hands indicated he had never done any hard 
work, and he had, failing to find something here to 
do, gone to the Black Hills and engaged on the rail- 
road and now he is laid up. I really pitied him. 
Called on Mr. Abbott. Walked home by way of 
Colonel Carling's camp and called in to see how Mr. 
Stewart and Mr. Fletcher were. Latter better and 
former worse. Met Mr. S. and brought message to 
Doctor. Saw the military just returning from a 
funeral of one of their companions, as I neared Fort. 
Finished letter to American Churchman., 

Jan. 31st. Snowed some last night, but has all 
blow^n off this evening. Read all afternoon and most 
of evening. Spirit of Missions, and paper, and 
Sketch of Life and Work of John Williams, the 
Missionary of the South Seas. Found that Cap- 
tain PiercQ is Lieutenant Pierce. 

Feb. 1st, 1S68. Prepared for Sunday's services. 
Doctor offered me his horse to go to town. Got lot 
of books and papers from Mr. Tuttle and Dr. Alden 
for the poor fellows in hospital. Went among them 
and found them very glad indeed to get my litera- 
ture and begged me to come soon again. Had a few 
words with a poor fellow suffering from pneumonia. 
Letter from Bishop Clarkson taking leave of me and 
sending me over to Bishop Randall. Letter from 

—27— 



latter welcoming me and assuming all Bishop Clark- 
son's promises to me and proposes to obtain teacher 
if there is want of a parish school. Letter from 
John Sherman expressing his surprise at my change. 
Brought out bundle on the horse for Mr. Tuttle. 

Sunday, Purification, Feb. 2nd. Commenced 
boarding with Rev. Mr. Tuttle. Captain Ball took 
me down to service in his ambulance together with 
Mrs. Ball and Mrs. Woolley. More than one hun- 
dred present and everything passed off nicely. Sing- 
ing very good. Lunched with the Tuttles and then 
walked to Colonel Carling's. Took soup there, and 
then visited sick in company with Dr. Alden. Got 
back in time to see ''dress parade" at Fort. Men 
made fine appearance, but I thought it terrible that 
they should have inspection and general review in 
morning and then have to turn out on Sunday after- 
noon also. General S. seems devoid of principle. 
Dined at Lieutenant Pierce's quarters, with him and 
Doctor. Captain Coates called on me in evening 
and sat till bedtime. Found him most agreeable 
gentleman. Has been a beautiful day. 

Feb. 3rd. Wrote to Mr. Abel to thank them for 
their kind remembrance. To Miss Carrie Roberts 
to ask her to interest herself in getting some litera- 
ture for the hospital. Intended to go to city but 
Doctor thought it too cold, so I walked to Colonel 
Carling's. Saw Chas. Anderson, their cook, who is 
a churchman, and talked with him some. Told Jo- 
seph, the black boy, that if the colored people would 
find a place and wished it I would have service for 
them. In evening had interesting talk with Mr. Mc- 
Carthy, a very intelligent Irishman, a carpenter, who 
came in and waited to see Doctor. Went to Major 
Woolley's to eat oysters ; but having fit of indiges- 
tion today had no appetite for them. Fine day. 



Beautiful night. 



—28— 



Feb. 4th. Finished letter to Mr. Robbins. Rode 
down to Cheyenne with Major W., and Doctor, and 
Mr. Tuttle. Called to talk with Mrs. Morrow about 
forming- a Mite Society. Letters from Mrs. Smith, 
and Colville. Frank has not arrived yet. Note from 
Mr. Fallon enclosing one from Mr. Harriman. 

Feb. 5th. After lunch walked down to Cheyenne. 
Called on Mrs. Street and talked over church affairs 
and church work and asked about the Mite Society. 
Mr. Berger walked out part way with me. Gathered 
cactus bulbs as I came along to send to some of my 
friends. Really suffered for first time with cold in 
my hands. 

Feb. 6th. Sent cactus to Mrs. Davis, Miss C. 
Trimble, Mrs. Smith, Miss Mary Hamlin. Mr. 
Sherman came in very unexpectedly and sat awhile, 
also Mr. Culbertson. Wrote to Marshall Curry, Bro. 
Lycett to enclose draft for convocation money and 
to Hurd and Houghton subscribing further for 
Smith's Biblical Dictionary. Reading "Katrina' by 
Holland. Captain Cahill died today of dehrium tre- 
mens, a sad, sad death. He was under arrest and 
soon to be court-martialed, and probably would have 
been dismissed from service. Escaped the judgment 
of man and gone to the judgment of God. Called 
on Captain and Mrs. Ball, spent pleasant evening. 

Feb. 7th. Finished "Katrina\ Doctor moving 
into his new hospital. Bro. Tuttle asked me to walk 
with him at funeral, did so and acted sexton in scat- 
tering earth on that hopeless grave. Soldiers dis- 
covered an old lady on the plain one-half mile from 
the grave, who w^as helpless. Said she had been 
there since Monday afternoon ! She is a widow 
without near relatives, having an only son in Helena, 
Montana, a successful miner. Had sent her $300.00 
and told her to stay in Omaha and go out to him in 

—29— 



the Spring. She feared she might die before Spring 
and wished to see her son, so started out. Arrived 
here Monday morning and thought in afternoon she 
would go out and look around. Lost her way, got 
frightened, and when worn out sank down with 
weariness. Has had nothing to eat or drink, only a 
little snow. Was well and warmly dressed or she 
would have been frozen to death. Three dresses and 
warm underclothing, two pairs of stockings, shoes 
and overshoes. As it is she has only her feet slightly 
frosted. After getting her some relief in the way 
of eating and restoring her feet, Doctor sent her to 
City Hospital. I went with her in ambulance. Had 
$270.00 on her person. Took the patients lot of 
newspapers both secular and religious which they 
seemed glad to get. Held short service in upper 
ward. Letter from Bishop Clarkson enclosing letter 
from Mr. Fargo with reference to my goods. He 
remits the charges on their part. Bishop begs me 
not to be uneasy about the transfer as Bishop R. will 
be able to do more for me than he could do, at which 
Mr. Sherman shakes his head. Called on Captain 
Coates, but he was shortly after called out to attend 
court-martial. 

Feb. 8th. Very cold day. Tonight thermometer 
15 degrees below zero. With our very open room 
through which we can see (through the cracks be- 
tween boards) it was almost impossible to keep 
warm. A damp snow mist was prevailing, which 
made the cold so much more perceptible. Prepared 
for Sunday. Wrote long letter to Charley Cook and 
commenced one to Aunt Densmore. Received a let- 
ter from dear mother and find she is in miserable 
health. Greatly disappointed I did not go to see 
them, yet feared the cold would be severe upon me 
if I did. 

—30— 



Septuagesima, Feb. 9th. Very cold and severe 
wind, but warm on the lee side of the buildings, so 
much so. that the snow melts. By evening all the 
snow had blown away. Captain and Mrs. Ball were 
going down to service, so they took Doctor and my- 
self. About thirty people present and service was 
very pleasant. Introduced to a Mr. Smith of Con- 
necticut, a churchman, who was rejoiced to find ser- 
vices here. He, only a visitor. Short letter from 
Dr. Walfley directed simply to Cheyenne ! But 
Cheyenne has become so notorious that it came. 
Doctor has but little to do, so is spending his time 
in reading; and thinks it will be some years before 
I receive his wedding cards. Spent rest of afternoon 
reading "Life of Swedenborg." Amazed at the folly 
and credulity of his biographer, and of S.'s disciples. 
Finished letter to Aunt D. Lieutenant Longshore 
came in and sat awhile. Handsome fellow, and if he 
would only let liquor alone and was rid of a little 
youthful folly would be a very agreeable and at- 
tractive gentleman. Became quite sick from eating 
mutton for dinner and was not relieved till I had 
taken an emetic of warm water. Doctor called out 
at 9 o'clock p. m. to see a man who, in a drunken 
brawl, was struck and his scalp laid open about 10 
o'clock this morning. Had been bleeding ever since ! 
Doctor found him nearly gone — without pulse. Of 
so little account is human life in this rough region ! 

LETTe:r to bishop RANDALL. 

Cheyenne, Dak. Te:r., Feb. 13th, 1868. 
Rt. Rev. Geo. M. Randall, D. D. 

My Dear Bishop : — Not yet having received an- 
swers to my last batch of letters, I may still count 
myself under the jurisdiction of ColjDrado, I sup- 
pose. And as you were kind enough to mention the 

—31— 



matter of schools in your letter, I thought I would 
let you know the state of the case. I have made 
some investigations of the matter and lay before you 
the results. From the first I have felt anxious on 
this subject, yet feared I should be obliged to let the 
opportimity sHp by because of the lack of means to 
carry it out. The school at the city school house has 
been started and there are 112 scholars. If I recol- 
lect correctly, they pay $1.50 each per week. The 
gentleman's wife assists him part of the time. But 
of course they cannot do justice to so many. Some 
of the parents are dissatisfied, and there are some 
families here who do not send their children at all 
because of the danger ; there being all kinds and 
sizes in the school. Persons have told me they 
thought we could start at once with 25 or 30 schol- 
ars. And had I room I should do so at once. But 
that is the trouble. I don't suppose we could get a 
room at all; and if we did we should have to pay 
about $100 per month. The rent for 15 months 
would perhaps put up a suitable building. Had I 
the money I would put up a suitable little building 
which would do also for Sunday School purposes. 
But I have not. And I cannot ask the people to do 
it, for they will have all that they can do to build the 
church. In the meantime the Romanists will doubt- 
less come along and settle the matter. Rev. Mr. 
Tuttle, Post Chaplain, received from the railroad 
company a lot for school purposes. He hoped to put 
up a building and have a cousin of his to come and 
start a school. But he is unable to take the matter 
in hand now. He offers to lease us the lot for three 
years free of charge. But our lots are amply suf- 
ficient, being 132x132 feet. His niece, of Chicago, 
he represents as an admirable teacher, and splendid 
singer. The 4ast named qualification is very desir- 



able in my estimation, at least the ability to teach the 
children vocal music. Also that she be a good 
needle woman. 

Why is it we cannot find devotional women of 
means, and of good qualifications among us who, 
for the love of Christ and the furtherance of His 
Church, will give themselves to this school work, as 
well as among the Romanists? Even had we a 
building the remuneration would not be such as to 
command any but the most ordinary talent, I fear. 
I should be willing myself to teach for an hour or 
two per day for the sake of helping such a project 
along. 

A granite building with low walls, chapel form, 
could be put up much cheaper than of wood, and it 
would be better in many ways. We would not need 
to plaster it either inside or outside until next fall. 

But why multiply words and castles in the air? 
If I had the means, or the strength and skill, I 
would do the work myself. But, alas ! I fear I 
must suffer the victory to go to Rome, who can com- 
mand all the money and women she wishes. 

I wait your advice. We expect to raise about 
$3,500 for the church, including the $1,000 from 
St. Mark's, Philadelphia, which I confidently expect. 
We think that will give us a very respectable build- 
ing. We thought of building of wood, but we now 
think some of using granite, which I hope will be 
the case ; although we cannot commence as soon 
as with wood. 

Our services are well attended, and the circle of 
those interested is increasing. In a few weeks I 
expect we shall have a great rush of population here. 

I shall be very glad indeed to welcome you when 
you come out. Yours very sincerely, 

Joseph W. Cook. 

—33— 



Sexagesima, Feb. i6th. Charming day. Mrs. 
Ball rode with me to service. Large congregation, 
nearly filling the school house. Preached with a 
great deal of interest. Commenced collection for 
incidental expenses, and surplus to be applied to 
purchase of an instrument. Appointed meeting of 
ladies to form a Mite Society. 

LETTER TO BISHOP RANDALL. 

Cheyenne, Dak. Ter., Feb. 17th, 1868. 
Rt. Rev. Geo. M. Randall, D. D., Bp. Colo., etc. 

My Dear Bishop : — Yours of 6th inst. reached 
me on Saturday and I respond as soon as possible 
to I'et you know I have not received the check of 
which you speak as having been sent me a few days 
previous. I hope it has not been lost. It may have 
been missent and may yet reach me. 

I was aware that this portion of Dakota, under 
the name of Wyoming, was originally assigned and 
intended by the General Convention to be under 
your jurisdiction. But as you were reported to have 
said in the East with reference to it, long before I 
thought of coming here, that it was a part of your 
jurisdiction which as yet you had not been able to 
find; and as Bishop Clarkson seemed to have juris- 
diction from the fact that he interested himself in 
the matter and induced me to come out, and also 
made certain propositions to the people here — from 
these facts now could I or the people conclude oth- 
erwise than that it was granted on all hands, by 
yourself and others, that so long as this remained a 
part of Dakota it belonged to Bishop Clarkson? 
And then as a matter of course we supposed there 
must be action taken by some responsible body, eith- 
er by the Board of Missions, or General Convention, 
before it could be taken out of the hands of one 

—34— 



Bishop and transferred to another. But you inform 
us there has been no action in the matter, and so I 
suppose you have simply claimed it of Bishop 
Clarkson as a part of your original grant. 

You very much mistake my meaning and my state- 
ment if you suppose there is any feeling against you 
personally either on the part of the people or myself. 
Nothing is farther from the truth. But our feeling 
and opposition to the supposed transfer was on ac- 
count of our anxiety for the unity and success of the 
church project here, which we feared would be much 
hindered by a change of Masters at such a critical 
time ; and from one who was a personal friend and 
former pastor of quite a number, to one who is a 
stranger and known only by reputation. I think 
you will grant that it was not an unatural and un- 
wise fear. 

However, the responsibility is not with us ; and 
since the matter has been decided against us, we 
shall yet not be rebellious. We accept it in all good 
faith that it is the will of God ; and will do our 
best endeavors to work with you for the glory of 
God and the advancement of the interest of His 
Church here. 

We are still getting subscriptions for the Church. 
I do not know what they amount to now. We think 
of building of granite, which will be much cheaper 
and far more substantial than wood. I think we 
shall also try to put up a Rectory at the same time, 
and if we had the means we could also put up the 
Chapel for school purposes of which I spoke the 
other day. We are much obliged for the $i,ooo 
which you offer us. If you think best you can 
send it to Mr. Chas. D. Sherman, care Kuntze 
Bros. & Co., who is Treasurer. We shall be happy 
to see you on your way out, and hope you will stay 

—35— 



with us several days. Services yesterday were large- 
ly attended. The weather is exquisite here at pres- 
ent — dry and clear and warm., With sincere re- 
gards, yours in Christ and His Church. 

Josi:ph W. Cook. 

Feb. 20th. Met the ladies at Mrs. Morrow's. 
Six present. Opened meeting with prayer and 
stated the objects of the proposed society. Letter 
from Mr. Davis at last. Contained check for $45.00 
which my late parishioners had contributed after 
hearing of my misfortune in losing my pocket- 
book. Mr. Mendenhall acting as lay reader; Gen- 
eral Trimble still suffering with ulcerated jaw. Mr. 
Davis has sold our household goods. Mrs. D. says 
she can only wish me back among them. Begs me 
to write to General T. to cheer him up. Did so. 
Letter from Rev. B. Wistar Morris of German- 
town informing me that Dr. Irving has nominated 
me as the Missionary of the Young Christian Sol- 
diers of the Sunday Schools of St. Luke's, Calvary, 
St. John Baptist, and St. Michael's, Germantown, 
and wishing me to write them. Wrote him promis- 
ing to write them as soon as possible. 

Feb. 21 St. Charming day. Walked up Crow 
Creek with Mr. Tuttle, searching for moss agates 
and to see the stream. Doctor and I moved up- 
stairs this week and find it much pleasanter than 
downstairs. Got my books opened and arranged, 
which is a great comfort to me. Wrote long letter 
to friend Tolman. 

Feb. 22nd. Another charming day. Review at 
Fort in honor of Washington's birthday, but wish- 
ing to do some business down town, rode down on 
horseback. Found letter from Sister Helen at 
Walnut Hills ; is nearly well, goes to Columbus 
soon. Called at Mr. Arnold's to see about cleaning 

-3(^ 



of school house for service on Sundays. From there 
went to the hospital to distribute papers for Sunday 
reading, and to give my Frenchman a book of fa- 
bles, being the only French book I could scare up. 
Prepared for Sunday and visited David Clov^, one 
of our carpenters, who is sick with pneumonia in 
the Post Hospital. Toward midnight it rained a 
little and it was really a joyful sound to me in this 
dry country. The wind blew a hurricane and rocked 
us in our beds. 

Quinquagesima, Feb. 23rd. Blowing fiercely all 
day. Called in to see Clow and finding him very 
sick indeed; wrote to*his brother, who is about 75 
miles from here. Doctor went with me to town to 
service. Owing to the very terrible wind, there were 
only about twenty-five persons out. Appointed a 
service on Ash- Wednesday at the house of Mr. 
Morrow's. Spent afternoon reading church papers 
and Churton's Early English Church. Called to 
see Clow a few minutes and found him apparently 
better. At my request, David, our colored boy, and 
Wilson, Lieutenant Pierce's colored boy, came to my 
room and we sang hymns, read Sunday service and 
I talked to them. Wilson has been brought up m 
the Church and is quite intelligent. Lieutenant 
Pierce and Lieutenant Stombaugh came in and spent 
remainder of evening. *'The Missionary Picture 
Gallery" was lying on the table and attracted the 
notice of Mr. S. and we fell into conversation about 
missions in Japan. I was led to speak of the former 
Jesuit Missions there and Lieutenant S. asked my 
opinion of the Jesuits, and I gave it freely; and 
then he announced that he was a Roman Catholic 
and a great admirer of the Jesuits. Told him I 
could not recede from what I had said and further 
showed how these missions have been a failure in 



-7,7- 



various countries so far as any permanent work is 
concerned. He was rather astonished and tried to 
defend the Jesuits by saying they were only pio- 
neers and left their work for others to complete, 
which position cannot be maintained. Lieutenant 
Pierce supported my positions by what he has seen 
in Co., New Mexico, etc. 

Feb. 24th. Very pleasant day again. Wrote to 
Jack Eoff, also a couple of business letters, and then 
walked down town. Met Mr. Smith and we went 
together to Wells, Fargo & Co., to examine plot of 
Cheyenne and to find the church lots, and after- 
wards walked to those lots and viewed the ground. 
About the most commanding position in the town, 
but still clear to one side of the town, which is un- 
fortunate. Called on Mr. Cornforth and Mr. Test. 
Introduced to Mr. Snyder (chief in freight office 
of Union Pacific railroad) and Mr. Hill, conductor. 
Mr. Glover and Mr. Berger walked out part way 
with me and I was then picked up by ambulance, 
containing Mr. and Mrs. Tuttle. Dined with Mr. 
Pierce and Doctor and Lieutenant Stombs. Took 
some oranges to Mr. Clow and glad to find him bet- 
ter. Mrs. WooUey and Mrs. Ball and Captain 
Coates called in the evening. Commenced letter to 
Brother Rogers, Austin. 

Feb. 25th. Snowed lightly nearly all day. Not 
very cold. Finished letter. Read considerable in 
''Early English Church," Walked to Colonel Car- 
ling's with Doctor and made short call. Called on 
Mrs. Ball in evening. Wrote to Sister Helen. 

Ash Wednesday, Feb. 26th. Intended to spend 
morning in preparation for services this afternoon 
but after a little rest from interruptions, Mr. Gam- 
ble, a man whom I have met at City Hospital, came 
in. Professes to be from a church family and him- 

-38- 



k 



^elf intending to be confirmed as soon as has an op- 
portunity. Found him quite needy and gave him 
$2.cx) to help him. Dr. walked with me as far as 
Col. Carling's on my way to town. Called to see 
Mr. Ward, found him too much afflicted with rheu- 
matism to attend service this afternoon. Rushed 
about and did various errands and then went to 
Mr. Morrow's for service. It was very windy and 
feared there would be none there. Mr. Smith 
and Mr. Carlisle came and so we had enough to get 
the blessing. Had full Litany and a couple of 
hymns, the Gospel and a talk on subject of Lent and 
self denial. Enjoyed it. Found letter at bank from 
Bishop Randall. Desires us to build church of 
grout*, also. Spent evening at bank reading 
church papers and ending up with a sing with friend 
Sherman and Mr. Rhoan. 

Feb. 27th. Charming day. Wrote to Mr. Clow's 
brother telling him of improvement of his brother. 
Also to Mr. Fargo with reference to the express 
charges which have not been remitted. Visited the 
hospital to take my Frenchman a book, and the oth- 
ers some religious literature. Found Jones (man to 
whom I gave shirt, etc.) very low. I hardly think 
he can recover. Read, prayed and exhorted him 
very earnestly. Also another man with consump- 
tion is very low, and I talked with him of his soul's 
salvation. One man, or rather two of them, spoke 
to me with reference to Fred Walker (the pale 
youth who had so greatly excited my sympathy on 
my first visit to the hospital). He is out now but 
has no other refuge than a ''dug out" on Crow 
creek, one of whose occupants he accidentally be- 
came acquainted with, and who now shields him. 
But it is a party of gamblers, and the men beg me to 

*Throughout the diary we find this word spelled "graut." 

—39— 



save him from falling into their way of life. I went 
down then and sought him out. Found him in bed 
with two others, and a third was getting breakfast, 
although it was almost noon. Said he had been out 
to see me twice and missed me and asked him to 
come out to see me this afternoon. Called on a 
family down there who had recently come from 
Utah; English people and the old woman a mem- 
ber of the church. Also as was coming home disr 
covered a house inhabited by a colored woman. 
Went in and told her who I was, and proposed ser- 
vice for colored people in her house on Sunday 
afternoons; to which she assented. Spoke of a 
night school also, and I must see what I can do in 
the premises. After I got by Col. Carling's, Maj. 
Woolley overtook me with buggy and brought me 
up. Fred Walker came and he met Mr. Tuttle, whom 
fortunately I had seen before and to whom I had 
told Fred's story. He was pleased and invited him 
to go over when I went to dinner. Accordingly I 
took him over, and Mr. and Mrs. Tuttle proposed 
to give him a home until he could look about, if I 
would keep him tonight. I hunted up clean clothing 
for him and got him fixed up, as his wardrobe was 
almost nihil. 

Feb. 23th. It was a great satisfaction to see Fred 
cleaned up and dressed in decent clothes. Took him 
to Mr. Tuttle and left him. Wrote to Rev. Mr. 
Foote of Salt Lake City. Preparing sermon for 
Sunday. Reading "Early English Church". After 
dinner, as it has been a most charming day, Mr. and 
Mrs. Tuttle and I walked up the other side of Crow 
creek. Expected to go to vestry meeting tonight ; 
and Dr. being unwell and Col. Carling also, Maj. 
Woolley and I concluded no use to go for there 
would be no quorum. Very sorry indeed, for I want 

—40— 



them to get to work. Taught David awhile tonight. 
Wrote to Dr. Wolfley, to Street, Moore & Co., to 
tell them need not send me book of architecture as 
had delayed it so long, and to Up John's to send me 
theirs. Letter from Miss Carrie Roberts promising 
to do something for me in the way of literature for 
the hospital in Cheyenne. 

Feb. 29th. Wind blew a hurrcane nearly all day. 
It had been agreed to have a vestry meeting tonight 
but it was found impracticable as both Dr. and Col. 
Carling are unwell. I am almost in despair. Ev- 
eryone has so much business of his own to attend to 
that it is almost impossible to get on. Got things 
ready for S. Com., and prepared for Sunday. Read- 
ing ''Early English Church". Wrote to my old 
schoolmate and playmate. Will Claypole, on the sub- 
ject of entering the Sacred Ministry. May God 
bless, my words and urge him on to that which is 
evidently his position in the world. Sent him also 
"Why I am a Churchman". Called at Capt. Ball's 
and Mr. Woolley's. 

Sunday ist in Lent, March ist. Still very 
windy and disagreeable. Mr. and Mrs. WooUey and 
Mrs. Ball and Dr. Alden went down to service with 
me in the ambulance. Col. and Mrs. Carling were 
there. Judge Bartlett and Judge Ford, also other 
celebrities. To my pleasure found Rev. Mr. Hitch- 
ings of Denver, Colorado, there. Made him take 
the prayers as I had no surplice there for him and I 
could not spare mine as I had the S. Com. to cele- 
brate. At the S. Com. had only five Com. The oth- 
ers left for various causes. Present, Dr. Alden, Mr. 
Sherman, Mrs. Carling, Mrs. Morrow and Mrs. 
Ball. Took Bro. H. to Fort with us and spent the 
afternoon partly at Mr. Tuttle's and partly at my 
own room, talking over ecclesiastical affairs of this 

—41— 



jurisdiction. Brought me the regards of Bishop 
Clarkson and told me he vowed he would have me 
back into his jurisdiction. Mr. Woolley kindly 
sent Mr. H. down to Cheyenne as he insisted he 
must go in order to see Mr. Sherman awhile, and to 
be ready to start to Denver in morning. Mr. Pal- 
mer and his son Lieut. Palmer came in and spent 
evening and I was prevented from having my Sun- 
day school. Lieut. Pierce came in later. 

March 2nd. Tolerably windy still. Wrote to 
Sister Helen, also a number of business letters. To- 
wards noon Dr. and Lieut. Pierce took me to Col. 
Carling's camp and left me while they went on to 
C. Spent time at carpenter shop talking to Mr. 
Richards about church furniture. Asked him to 
turn a couple of alms basins, which he promised to 
do. Talked with several of the carpenters. Mr. 
Woolley kindly gave me two sticks of cedar for the 
alms basins. In the evening we waited and waited 
for Col. Carling to- send for us to go to vestry meet- 
ing. Despairing of the ambulance coming, went and 
borrowed Capt. Ball's, but before it came the Col.'s 
came. We all went down and although it was after 
8:00 o'clock when we arrived Mr. Sherman was not 
to be found. Waited long on him and as he did not 
corne and Judge Ford had arrived, we commenced 
business. In due time after that Mr. S. came. Col. 
Carling, Dr. Alden, Mr. Reed, Judge Ford and my- 
self were elected Building Committee. After meet- 
ing Judge F. brought in a pitcher of ale for my ben- 
efit and we had a very agreeable conversation over 
it. Remained over night. 

"March 3rd. Beautiful day, but pretty windy to- 
wards evening. Wrote letter with reference to an 
organ, and then started out to make visits. Called 
on Mr. Benedict, Mr. Kennedy and Mr. Reed's bro- 

—42— 



ther at Mr. Reed's office. On Mr. Chord, Judge 
Ford's partner. Judge F. and Judge Bartlett came 
in and we had a very pleasant chat. Called on Mr. 
Gardener, and sorry to find that I had missed seeing 
Mrs. G. She started for East this morning. Called 
on Mr. and Mrs. Ball, Mrs. Gildersleeve and Mrs. 
Gray at the Dodge house, and dined there. On Mr. 
WilHams and Pollock of "Rocky Mt. Star". Mr. 
W. kindly offered me a due hill of $50.00 towards 
an organ. On Dr. Bedell of ''Argus" and on his 
family ; but did not find them in. Some talk with 
Mr. Ruth on the street and talked on subject of per- 
sonal God. Called on Mr. and Mrs. Street, who 
Judge F. had informed me were sick. Did not see 
Mrs. S. but Mrs. Halliday informed me she had 
given birth to a son this morning. Met Mr. S. on 
the street afterwards and congratulated him. Went 
to the Hospital and spent a great deal of time talk- 
ing with the patients and distributing literature. 
Talked again with Mr. Jones and he said he wished 
to be baptized into the church. Asked him if it 
should be done now, and he thought best to put it 
off. Poor man, I fear he will shortly be beyond it. 
Talked earnestly to him and left him. Found a 
churchman there who seems quite a pleasant and in- 
telligent fellow and claims to be intimate with Mr. 
Hitchings. Mr. Berger walked some distance with 
me, and I then overtook Mr. Palmer walking out to 
the post, and walked out with him. Very hard work, 
the wind was so strong. Gave Mr. P. Bishop Ran- 
dall's "Why I am a Churchman". Wrote all even- 
ing and taught David. 

March 4th. Pleasant day. Prepared for service 
this evening. Wrote to Bp. Randall. Walked down 
town in afternoon. Called to see colored woman 
about holding services in her house. Was perfectly 

—43— 



willing. Did some errands for Dr. and called at 
hospital and saw Jones, who is still low, but was not 
ready to be baptized. Read a few verses, said a few 
words in exhortation and prayed. Mr. Sherman ex- 
cused himself from going to service on account of 
necessity of seeing about a law-suit; Mr. Berger be- 
cause of a letter which he must write to his wife! 
We were both reminded of the men in the Gospels. 
Mrs. Morrow, Mr. and Mrs. Manion, Mr. Smith, 
Mrs. Carlisle and Dr. Alden were there. Said Lit- 
any, sung couple of hymns and talked on subject of 
Ember week, suggesting subjects of prayer. Letter 
from John Robinson to say he was to go on 2nd 
inst., to enter upon his studies at St. John's Training 
School, Camden, N. J. Thank God for His favor 
and blessing upon our endeavor to give John a 
chance to show if there is anything in him for the 
service of the Sacred Ministry. Letter at last from 
Mrs. Fallon — all well and continue their interest in 
me. Frank is better of his cough and at school. 
Marshall she reports as a good boy and doing well, 
and greatly tickled at getting a letter from me and 
will shortly answer. Ring around the moon. 

LE^TTKR TO BISHOP RANDALL. 

Che^ye^nnd, Dak. Tkr., March 4th, 1868. 
My De:ar Bishop : — I have delayed writing in 
answer to yours of 19th February in hopes of 
apprising you of some decided progress in our 
Church project here. I am sorry that I have noth- 
ing more progressive than the present will relate. 
The draft which you sent me has not yet reached 
me, and I suppose it is now hopelessly lost. We 
have had service every Sunday since I came, but 
our congregation necessarily depends very much 
on the state of the wind. On calm days we have 

—44— 



about an hundred worshippers, and on windy days 
the number varies with the force of the wind. Last 
Sunday I had the pleasure of Brother Hitching's 
presence, and his company during the afternoon, 
and enjoyed it very much. He assisted me in the 
prayers. I celebrated the S. Communion for the 
first time on ist inst. I extemporized a S. Table, 
and by spreading down a piece of carpet upon the 
edge of the platform, and turning a couple of the 
low school benches with their backs to the congre- 
gation extemporized quite a respectable chancel 
rail. I preached upon the nature and design of the 
S. Communion. Only five communicants came for- 
ward. There were others at the service, but for 
some reason they departed with the multitude. We 
take up a collection every Sunday. It is for in- 
cidental expenses (which are very small) and the 
surplus to be added to a subscription for an organ 
of some kind. There are some excellent singers, 
but they seem to think they can do nothing until 
they get an instrument, and so they throw upon 
me the preaching, praying and singing also ; and 
it is quite a tax. I hope we shall soon be able to 
get an instrument. Feeling the necessity of having 
some means of getting the better class of people 
together, so as to shape society, I organized, two 
weeks ago, a mite society which promises to be a 
great success. It meets on Thursday evening every 
other week. I proposed to them three objects in 
it — the social, the preparation of garments for 
cases of necessity, and to aid me in that branch of 
my work, and aside from these to undertake some 
special part of the work of building the church, as, 
e. g., the furnishing of the Chancel. Our second 
meeting takes place tomorrow evening. After three 
appointments, which came to naught on account of 



-45- 



absence or sickness of vestrymen, we at last got 
together on the night of the 2nd inst. and ascer- 
tained where we stand, and have taken a short step. 
Judge Ford has shown a great deal of energy and 
interest. After our last meeting he went out and 
in two days got eight subscriptions for $ioo apiece, 
refusing from policy to take less. He then handed 
it to Mr. Street with a list of those who had of- 
fered less amounts ; and he failed to present it to 
a single individual! Dr. Alden has already collect- 
ed some at the Post. I have been greatly chagrined 
and annoyed at the want of energy in the matter, 
for I have felt that we were losing every day. And 
yesterday I learned that the Romish priest has ap- 
peared in town, and he is going to work to collect 
money for his church. There are numbers who 
will give to one, but they will not give to both and, 
perhaps, would prefer to give to ours; but if the 
Padre calls ii7'st he will get it. I think the mistake 
here has been that a Bishop was not on the ground 
when population was pouring in here, and money was 
plenty and circulating freely ; one who had author- 
ity to collect money, and to make arrangements for 
building, and who might see to it that the Church 
got lots, and plenty of ground in the proper place 
for a church, and church institutions. I have not 
the slightest doubt that he could have had a good 
and even elegant church two months ago, and all 
the money for it collected on the spot. However, 
it is too late for that now. We have two beautiful 
lots, 66x132 feet, one-quarter of a block, in the 
most beautiful and commanding position about the 
place, but then they are clear away from the popu- 
lation, clear beyond the town. Then, too, the Luth- 
erans have the other quarter block right alongside, 
which, in my estimation, is far from desirable. Mr. 

-4^ 



Reed, who chose them, did what he thought best, 
but the Bishop would have been a better judge of 
the needs of the case. If Cheyenne grows, as it 
may considerably, that will doubtless be the desir- 
able part of town for private residences. But if it 
does not we are in a bad position for real church 
work. The sentiment of the vestry is decidedly in 
favor of granite. But as that kind of building in 
this region cannot be done until June, they are de- 
cidedly in favor of building of wood, and just as 
soon as possible. They believe that had we a 
church now we should have a regular congrega- 
tion of three or four hundred. So I suppose it 
must be of wood, although I should so very much 
prefer granite. Colonel Carling, Dr. Alden, Judge 
Ford and myself are appointed a building com- 
mittee, and we shall meet this week to discuss 
plans. We have as the basis of our discussions at 
present the plans of St. Mark's Cottage Grove, 111., 
and the Episcopal Church at Harlem, 111. 

During Lent I am having a Wednesday evening 
service at a private house. I can have no Sunday 
School as yet, from want of a place. We are much 
obliged for your offer of $500 for a school house 
of granite, and I think I shall take advantage of it 
when possible. But when you come out in May 
we can determine definitely unless the season 
should be settled earlier and I could hasten the 
work, in case I saw my way clear. There is to be a 
town up the railroad near Fort Sanders, two miles 
off, to be called Laramie City. It is already laid 
out, but lots are not yet for sale. Being in a much 
better country naturally than this place, it is 
thought there will be considerable of a place there. 
The railroad will reach there before long, as soon 
as spring ope as. I wish we could have a man 



-47- 



there to take time by the forelock as regards the in- 
terests of the Church. I will write you again as 
soon as any further steps are taken here. 
I am, my Dear Bishop, 

Yours in Christ and His Church, 
Joseph W. Cook. 

March 5th. Beautiful morning and as balmy as 
spring. About 3 o'clock a storm of wind came on, 
and tonight it is snowing and blowing terribly. The 
house shakes fearfully. Wrote to John Robinson 
and to Rev. Mr. Reilly enclosing draft for $45.00 
for John's use. To Mrs. Fallon, giving her later 
news of me and my doings, and suggesting that St. 
]\Iark's might give us a bell as a baptismal gift, 
since we have at last the $1,000.00 from them by 
our transfer to Bishop Randall. To Church Journal 
to have it stopped. Called on Mrs. Ball and Mrs. 
Woolley and had talk with each on church matters 
to some extent. Talk with Doctor about baptism of 
infants. Wilson Hawkins left us this morning for 
Saunders. Was sorry to have the boy go. May 
God keep him and direct him in his most holy ways. 
Reading "Canvithen." 

]\Iarch 6th. Stormed fiercely all day. Snow 
drifting in every direction. Wrote long letter to the 
"Young Soldiers of H." in Germantown, giving 
them a description of the plains. Letter also to Rev. 
B. Wistar Morris. Called on Captain Coates and 
was ver}^ much pleased to find him freed from ar- 
rest. Had pleasant call. 

March 7th. Pleasant day. Snow drifting away 
quite rapidly. Commenced writing sermon, but it 
was so late and suffered so many interruptions that 
at last abandoned it. Spent afternoon in regulating 
Doctor's closet, as he has just discharged David, and 
Fred W^alker, whom he has taken in his place, w^as 

-48- 



late in coming over. Went round with Fred and 
directed the arrangement of his quarters. After 
dinner called a few minutes at Captain Ball's and 
then Doctor and I walked down to Colonel Carling's 
to talk over plans for a church. Found he had had 
his draftsman at work on a plan. Spent a pleasant 
hour and then had delightful walk back in the bright 
moonlight and delicious air. Just on arrival there 
was an alarm of fire and Lieutenant Stombo's quar- 
ters were found to be ablaze. After considerable 
difficulty they were able to extinguish it. Prepared 
for Sunday. 

Sunday, second in Lent, March 8th. Very pleas- 
ant morning. Snowed towards evening. Mr. Tut- 
tle, Mrs. WooUey and Mrs. Ball went down with me 
in the ambulance. Major Jackson, Captain Coates, 
Lieutenant Spencer and Doctor went in another. I 
took first part of service and Ante Communion ; 
Mr. Tuttle the prayers. Preached with good deal 
of interest. Mr. Reed has returned, and I was very 
glad to see him. Brought Captain Davis to intro- 
duce him. Judge Ford, Judge Chase and Judge 
Bartlett and other worthies were present. The re- 
sponses were refreshing. I nearly broke down in 
an attempt to start the Gloria in Excelsis, but recov- 
ered myself. Remained in town expecting to hold 
service for colored people, but on going to the house 
found the old aunty quite unwell and unable to have 
service. Sat and talked with her awhile, and then 
called on Mrs. Street, whom I was sorry to find not 
getting along so well as I could wish. Saw the lit- 
tle tiny stranger. Met Mr. Street's mother. Called 
at the hospital to inquire for Jones. Found he died 
on Thursday unbaptized ! Poor creature ! Spoke 
to the doctor about burying people without any 
service. Mrs. WooUey kindly sent buggy in for me 

—49— 



at 5 o'clock. Called at Captain Ball's to see if she 
would go to service tonight. Found her unwell. 
Assisted Mr. Tuttle in the service. Quite a good 
congregation. The sermon, alas ! Rambled all over 
creation, and I failed utterly to see the point he was 
driving at. Besides, some things in it were undig- 
nified. It makes me feel sad. The opportunity for 
good seems thrown away ! He desires to benefit, 
but he makes a grand mistake in the means. May 
God give me wisdom to labor with more directness 
and efficiency in the field in which He has placed 
me. Sat up till till near midnight talking with the 
Doctor. 

March 9th. Pleasant day, air a little raw. Wrote 
a long letter to Mr. Davis. Doctor and I agreed to 
ride together, but there was some misunderstanding 
at the stables and my horse did not come, so Doctor 
took his ride and then I rode some distance up the 
creek. After dinner called on Major Ferris and 
wife. Major Jackson, Lieutenant Spencer. The two 
latter not in, called on Lieutenant Hayes and Mr. 
Major, and Mrs. Woolley. Read some. 

March 12th. Thirty-second birthday. Went down 
tovvm and did lot of pastoral work. Dined with 
Messrs. Sherman, Blinn and Barton. Mr. Tuttle 
came after me while at dinner to say Mrs. Street 
wished me to baptize her baby, as she feared it 
would not live. Baptized it during afternoon. Ves- 
try meeting in evening. As plans were not ready on 
account of sickness of draftsfan, we could do but 
little. Came home with Doctor, Colonel Carling 
and Major Woolley. 

March 14th. Stayed with Mr. Sherman last 
night. Doctor and Lieutenant Pierce came down 
in ambulance. I took the ambulance and went after 
a melodean which vestry authorized Mr. S. and me 

— 5(>- 



to purchase. Came down in evening to see about 
the music. Mr. Smith came and played, and we 
selected the tunes. Stayed all night. Mr. Street's 
baby died yesterday. 

Sunday, third in Lent, March 15th. Storming 
when got up. Looked so threatening thought there 
would be nobody at service. At 9 :30 said the burial 
service over Mr. Street's child at the Wyoming 
House. At service time the storm, had disappeared 
and a reasonable congregation assembled. Used 
our alms basins for the first time and also our melo- 
dean, which sounded very sweetly. Colonel Carling 
brought me out. Called at Captain Ball's to wel- 
come Captain home and to pay my respects to Chap- 
lain Wright of Laramie. Mr. W. preached for Mr. 
Tuttle in evening. I announced a lecture on the Bee 
for Tuesday and Mr. T. announced that I should 
take his place while off on furlough. Took Mrs. 
Woolley. 

LI^TTER TO BISHOP RANDALL 

Che:yi:nne:, D. T., March i6th, 1868. 
My Dear Bishop : — Yours of 2nd inst. came to 
hand on 12th. I am equally surprised with you that 
letters are so long on the road. They ought not to 
be over 6 days at most. Yours of February 3rd 
containing check has never reached me. I suppose 
it is hopelessly lost. I suppose of course you have 
taken measures to stop the payment of it at your 
bank. I wrote you after a late vestry meeting, in 
which I informed you of the sentiment which then 
prevailed with reference to the kind of building we 
should put up — viz., that to gain time, which is very 
important, it should be frame. I complained of the 
dilatoriness of the vestry also. Since then they have 
moved. All the vestrymen are at home now, and 

—51— 



we had a meeting last Thursday evening (12th 
"inst). It was determined to push the matter of 
subscriptions, and to commence collecting the 
money. Dr. Alden had already collected a consid- 
erable part of the subscriptions at the Post; and 
Colonel Carling paid in the first installment from the 
Quartermaster's Depot, and also about $75 from 
the church at West Point, N. Y. (Mrs. Car- 
ling is the daughter of Prof. Bartlett.) The sub- 
scription list notv amounts to about $2,500 and Ma- 
jor Woolley and Mr. Sherman were to work at it 
today, and we think it w411 be at least raised to 
83,000, which, together with the $1,000 you have 
promised us, we think will, with our advantages, 
put us up a ver}- nice church. By the way, you did 
not respond to my suggestion of sending us, as soon 
as convenient, that money. Some of our subscrip- 
tions will undoubtedly be a little slow in coming in, 
for times are just at present dull; but we think 
them nearly all as good as gold ; so that if you 
could give us that ready money to work with it 
would be a very great help just at present in getting 
things together. 

Since I wrote we have purchased a melodean (one 
of Princes', 6 octaves) for $110 — just what it cost 
in Buffalo, without anything for carriage. Part of 
the money was furnished by the Mite Society which 
I wrote you I had organized some weeks ago ; and 
the rest was what remained over and above inci- 
dental expenses. It was used for the first time yes- 
terday ; and I assure you it was a great relief to get 
rid of starting the tunes, as well as a pleasure to 
hear an instrument once more. There are several 
persons who play, and some most excellent singers, 
and I think we shall get a choir together this week. 
At first in taking up the collection my hat was used 

— ;2— 



as an alms basin. Then I used a Paten which be- 
longed to a Communion set which I brought out. 
Finding a skillful turner at the Quartermaster's, 
with Colonel Carling's consent, I had a pair of alms 
basins turned out of a cedar log which Major Wool- 
ley gave me for the purpose. The turner, Mr. 
Richards, being a Churchman, did them for nothing. 
They are exquisitely beautiful and would grace a 
metropolitan church. The wood itself, red cedar, 
is very rich; and then I have spent a good deal of 
time and muscle in polishing them with oil till they 
are lovely. They are a Httle smaller than I should 
like ; but they are as large as the log would permit. 
So far as I can learn, I last week baptized the first 
child baptized in Cheyenne — the child of T. J. 
Street, Esq., one of the vestry. Yesterday I said 
the burial service over the same child. 

The Chaplain at Fort Russell, Mr. Tuttle, leaves 
tomorrow on leave of absence for 30 days. I have 
engaged to keep up his services at the Fort on Sun- 
day evenings. Tomorrow evening I am to talk to 
the soldiers in hopes of doing something to interest 
them, and have chosen for my first talk The Honey 
Bee. Never having talked publicly on subjects of 
natural history, I don't know how I shall succeed. I 
am thus helping Mr. Tuttle ; but unfortunately I can 
make but little use of him in helping me, as I had 
hoped when I learned he was going to be so near 
me. He does not interest people, and having 
preached once in Cheyenne before I came, some of 
the people are dreadfully afraid I will invite him to 
preach for me. So for poHcy's sake I refrain, al- 
though his age almost demands of me that I should 
show him that courtesy. 

We expected to discuss a plan for the church at 
our last vestry meeting; but Colonel Carling's 

^53— 



draftsman having been sick he was unable to bring 
them. We expected to meet tonight, and I will de- 
tain this letter in order to give you the result. Our 
opinion coincides with your own that whatever we 
build shall be good, substantial, churchly and free of 
debt. I hope to be able to present you for consecra- 
tion on your arrival out, a satisfactory church edi- 
fice. I will send you a rough sketch of our plan, to 
give you some idea of it. IMajor Woolley is very 
sanguine that we can go ahead at once after the 
church is up, to build a Rectory. I hope it may be 
so. I believe it would and could be made a great 
power in this community. In some respects I think 
it is almost as important as the church. There are 
only a few Christian homes here. And if I had a 
quiet house .where I could invite this mass of young 
men to meet me in the evenings, I believe many 
would be saved from the temptation to go to these 
wretched places of amusement (?) in order to while 
away the time. Oh ! if I could only transform my- 
self into a hundred men for a month or so, I should 
have not only a church, which is now progressing as 
well as could be expected, but a rectory, school- 
house, a hospital also. They all seem pressing needs. 
But alas ! having neither the fortune, nor the ability 
to transform myself, I must wait the slow move- 
ments of men wdio but little realize the urgency of 
Hhe case, nor the good which might be accomplished. 
If we build a rectory it will probably be of granite, 
as also the school-house. 

I am writing a series of letters to the Sunday 
School children of Germantown who, at the sugges- 
tion of Dr. Twing, have taken me as their mission- 
ary. Rev. B. Wistar Morris said that I could tell a 
pretty good story and interest the children, and they 
might be able to do something more for me than the 



-54- 



i 



missionary stipend. I have suggested that they turn 
their attention to providing the school-house. I told 
him of your offer in that line. They may be able 
with your aid to give us that most important work. 

This month the weather has not been so generally 
fine, although, with the exception of one terrific 
snow-storm, it has not been so bad. This month 
and April are said to be the worst in this latitude. 
The winds are sometimes terrific. 

Evening. The plan which the draftsman pro- 
duced did not suit, and so he was set to work again, 
and we expect to have our vestry meeting on 
Wednesday evening. Consequently I shall not de- 
tain this letter. I trust you are being prospered in 
your efforts in the East. 

Since my last I have conversed with Mr. S. B. 
Reed, General Superintendent of Construction on 
U. P. R. R., with reference to the proposed town at 
Fort Sanders. It is at an elevation of i,ooo feet 
above this place, and he thinks decidedly that it will 
only be a summer town, like Julesburg. Therefore, 
my information was rather premature. I wish, 
however, we had the proper man to follow up the 
railroad and do what good he could. 

Hoping this may find you in good health, and 
praying for God's blessing upon you and yours, I 
am, Yours in Christ and His Church, 

Jose:ph W, Cook. 

March 17th. Prepared myself quite industriously 
for tonight. Went over at the time, but not a light 
nor a fire in the building! Mr. Tuttle had not taken 
proper means to have things in readiness. But, 
poor man, he was very busy getting ready to go 
home to Chicago on leave. I got ready and went 
down to Colonel Carling's to talk over church plans. 
Did not find him. Spent pleasant evening with Mrs. 

—55— . 



C. Wind blowing hard, and I got all in a perspira- 
tion fighting my way back to the Post. Wrote to 
Mr. and Mrs. Rodgers of G. Sat up very late talk- 
ing to Doctor. Paid board bill at Mr. Tuttle's, 
$45.00, and commenced boarding at Lieutenant 
Pierce's mess. Paid him $10.00. 

March iSth. Many interruptions in morning and 
accomplished nothing. Went to city at noon. Called 
on Mr. S. B. Reed, and notified him of vestry meet- 
ing. Made several other calls. On return to bank I 
was horrified to find Mr. Woolley and Colonel Car- 
ling there in a terribly maudlin condition. Mr. Sher- 
man thinking they would not be down to vestry 
meeting stayed away. Mr. Reed sent to say he could 
not get away from his ofiice. Colonel C. and Mr. 
W. did come, and with a plan for the church, and no 
vestry to discuss it! Plan was in most respects just 
w^hat I did not want, but Colonel C. was not in a 
condition to talk it over. Brought it home to Doctor 
and we discussed it till midnight. Disappointed, 
blue, disgusted with men ! Felt like running away 
and giving myself to the Indians. 

March 19th. Did not have any service last night, 
as Mrs. Morrow was sick in bed, and I feared it 
would be bad for her. Doctor and I rode down 
town on horseback. Called on Mr. Reed, Judge 
Ford, Mr. Sherman, and made an appointment out 
here for vestry tomorrow night. Doctor and I put 
our heads together to draw a plan for the church, 
Doctor doing the work. Dined at Major Woolley 's. 
Mr. Clark, paymaster in army, was there, and his 
clerk and Mr. Hubbard. Charming day. 

March 20th. Delightful day. Commenced ser- 
mon on St. John xv :5. Took ride with Doctor as 
far as the first ranch and then across to the Quar- 
termaster's. After dinner walked with Doctor to 

— q6— 



Colonel Carling's and when the other members of 
the vestry arrived, Messrs. Reed, Ford and Sher- 
man, we presented plans and discussed them and 
our means, and adopted Doctor's plan, reduced lo 
feet in length and 2 feet in width. Felt a load lifted 
off my shoulders both by the adoption of this plan 
and by getting to that stage in the proceedings. 
Walked back again, quite tired. 

March 21st. Another pleasant day. Wrote stead- 
ily all day and finished sermon just before dinner. 
Dressed and walked down town after dark to meet 
singers. Stopped to see old colored woman, and if 
it would be possible to have service at her house. 
Found her better, but not well. Practised singing 
awhile with Messrs. Sherman, Smith and Whipple. 
Wrote to Bishop Clarkson to see if he would use 
his influence to get our lumher over the N. W. R. R. 
free. Exhausted. 

Sunday, 4th in Lent, March 22nd. Most charm- 
ing Spring morning. Called to see Mrs. Morrow. 
Found her better. Read and prayed with her. 
Called to see how Mrs. Street is and found her ready 
to walk up to her new house, feeling unable to sit 
through the service at school house. Large congre- 
gation present. Feeling quite unwell from loss of 
sleep last night, I made two or three blunders in 
service. Rode out with Mrs. Woolley and dined at 
her house. In the evening held service in the Band 
Quarters ; last night used for Theatre. There were 
about 200 soldiers present. The responses were 
wretched and the music horrible. I was quite 
dispirited, but preached with considerable spirit. 
Mr. Pearce came in and sat awhile afterwards. 
Doctor let my lamp fall, and broke chimney and 
shade. 



■57— 



March 23rd. Another most charming day. The 
grass had begun to spring! Soon after breakfast 
Mr. Wilson came from town to talk with me about 
making some effort to do something for the wife 
and children of Charles Martin (one of the men 
hung by the ''Vigilantes" on Saturday night), who 
are said to be in a most destitute condition in Lex- 
ington, Mo. Promised to do something. Gave him 
$3.00 and wrote letter to Rocky Mountain Star with 
reference to the case and took it to Mr. Williams, 
the editor. Called at hospital and distributed pa- 
pers. Called on Messrs. Whipple and Abbott, Mrs. 
Morrow (whom I found better) ; and coming 
across a nice lot of little children, I went to see their 
mother, Mrs. Crouse, and found that they were 
church people, and only just arrived a week or so 
ago from Mahoney City, Pa. Seemingly very nice 
people. Called also to see family of name of Wale, 
English people who have been out to the Mormon's. 
Woman in a very weak state. Walked out to Post. 
Spent evening in writing a speech of Mr. Williams, 
w^hich I have engaged to remodel and correct for 
press. 

March 24th. Found it storming fearfully when 
we got up, and continued all day and all this even- 
ing. Snow in great drifts and wind blowing a hur- 
ricane. Could scarcely find my way through it to 
go to dinner. Worked all day and evening on the 
speech and finished it by bedtime. 

March 25th. Annunciation. Still storming this 
morning, but ceased about noon. Snow still drift- 
ing. Rather worthless today; worked too hard'yes- 
terday. Read most of the day. Wrote to Mr. Tut- 
tle, and to Mr. Van Antwerp, from whom I received 
a letter on Monday saying he expected to come up 
to make me a visit next week. Called at Mr. Wool- 

-S8- 



ley's in evening. Talked over church building mat- 
ters. 

March 26th. Beautiful day — almost as warm as 
June. Rode Mr. WooUey's horse dow^n to Cheyenne 
with Dr. Alden. Did some errands there and re- 
turned. Some of the streets utterly impossible with 
snow drifts. Moved Doctor downstairs. Called at 
Mrs. Morrow's, found her better. Also at Captain 
Ball's. 

March 27th. So stupid I could do but little. 
Spent the morning in writing couple of pages of 
letter to the Young Soldiers of Germantown. Rode 
down to town on Lieutenant Pierce's horse. Called 
to see Mrs. Morrow. Found Mr. Carlisle there 
and sat some time. Talked over church matters 
with Mr. Sherman. Met Mr. Crawford on street 
and had some talk. Also Mr. Shakespeare, who 
claims to be a churchman and yet keeps his billiard 
hall open on Sunday and has never been to our ser- 
vices ! Said, ''if he did not keep open, the people 
would be in some worse place." I responded I sup- 
posed he kept open purely to make money, and not 
for the sake of doing good to the morals of the com- 
munity. He laughed and admitted it. He said, 
''We come out here to make money, and we are 
not governed by the old puritanical ideas prevalent 
in the states." I was about to retort that I was not 
of opinion that we had got away from the dominion 
and from under the eye of the Almighty, but I 
feared I should offend and debar myself the pos- 
sibility of doing good to him in future, and I did not 
utter it. It made me sad. Called on Mr. Smith and 
upon Mrs. Beck. 

March 28th. Beautiful day. Fully intended to 
rewrite a sermon^ but interruptions and the noise of 
pounding in the other part of the house prevented. 

—59— 



Got ready for Sunday. Spent day very unsatisfac- 
torily in reading. In evening Mr, Woolley sent me 
down to town. Met singers at ''Bank," practiced 
with them. Letter from Mrs. Stone giving me the 
news of Chester Valley and filled with regrets from 
everybody at my absence. 

Sunday, 5th in Lent, March 29th. Streets are in 
a horrible condition and yet to my surprise a good 
attendance at service. Sung "Venite" for first time. 
Felt no interest in preaching — uphill work. No one 
down from Fort in vehicle. Walked out with Mr. 
Richards and Otto Prey. Prepared for service in 
evening, but messenger came to say could be none, 
as benches were gone. Went down to see about it, 
and found that the wretched, disgraceful General 
had allowed the theatre people to break up Mr. Tut- 
tle's benches which he had such difficulty in getting, 
to make a stage! Called at Captain Ball's to let 
them know would be no service. Met Major Noyes 
and wife (very pleasant people) and Major How- 
land and his Mexican wife. 

March 30th. Had trout for breakfast; and as I 
have taken the fever for fishing I started out. 
Fished only a little while, as a rain came on. Rained 
gently all day. First rain (regular one) since I've 
been here. Spent rest of day, under Doctor's su- 
pervision, making a set of book shelves. Called on 
Mrs. Woolley in evening. Read church papers. 

March 31st. Breakfasted with Mrs. Woolley and 
then rode down town with Mr. Mills and Mr. Major. 
Day somewhat cool, but pleasant. Finished letter to 
"Young Soldiers." Found Mr. Van Antwerp had 
not arrived. Made some calls and then met Mr. V. 
A. and wife at station. Called with him after sup- 
per at Mr. Reed's office and had some chat. 

—60— 



April 1st. Thought to go up to the end of track, 
but it was snowing and blowing this morning, and 
continued most of day. Went out with Mr. V. A. 
and gathered some cactus bulbs, and called on Mr. 
Reed and Mr. Abbott. Spent most of day with my 
friends in parlor of Rollins House. Had some con- 
versation with Mr. Leigh of the Royal Navy. He 
has been much maligned by the papers as a swin- 
dler; but I cannot believe it. He seems to me like 
a green English youth. He is quite fascinating; 
tells a straight story. Lost his money in Chicago ; 
but supposed he and his sister still had enough to 
take them to Salt Lake and back to Chicago, where 
he had ordered a remittance to be sent by his father, 
Governor of Nassau. Money ran out and was com- 
pelled to appeal for aid, with promise to return it. 
Could not but pity the fellow, yet could not help 
having little suspicion after all that has been said. 
Walked out towards evening with Mr. V. A. and 
showed him the city, which is very muddy and dis- 
gusting. Cleared off this evening. Spent evening 
also with them and Mr. Belden, a young printer 
here and formerly of Omaha. Bade the V. A.'s 
good-bye, as they go in the morning. 

April 2nd. Beautiful day. Went with Mr. Reed 
to the Black Hills. Introduced me to Mr. R. Case- 
ment, who, together with his brother. General C, 
lays the track on the U. P. R. R. Mr. Carlisle went 
along with me. Dined at Carmichael's with Mr. 
Lathrop, and afterwards at the earnest solicitation 
of Mr. Reed went on to the summit of the Black 
Hills, the highest elevation to which a railroad has 
been laid in the world. The scenery is perfectly 
grand from that point; one can see the ranges of 
mountains for hundreds of miles. From the sum- 
mit we went in a wagon to Dale Creek bridge, Mr. 

— 6i— 



Carmichael's present camp. Here it is beautifully 
wild, with towering cliffs of red granite. Wandered 
about for some time gathering a few evergreen 
plants, and some snail shells. The blasting of the 
rock on both sides of the creek for a channel for the 
railroad was like the constant discharge of a battery 
of artillery. After tea at Mr. Carmichael's, Mr. C, 
Mr. Reed and myself went over to Mr. Creighton's 
camp and to the telegraph office. Went to bed al- 
most exhausted. 

April 3rd. Beautiful morning, but tolerably cold. 
Commenced letter to Sister Helen. Wandered about 
a little while; and after seeing Mr. R. off up the 
railroad, Mr. Lamb brought me in a buggy over to 
the end of the track. Had to wait a couple of hours 
there, so I wandered about striving to find some na- 
tural curiosities, but did not succeed. Mr. Casement 
joined me and came down on locomotive to Car- 
michael's. Mr. Lathrop and I dined with him in 
the ''boarding car," and had a very good dinner. 
After dinner came down to Cheyenne with Mr. C. 
Called to see Mrs. Halliday, who is sick, but did not 
see her, as they wished her to be kept quiet. Her 
husband said, "If she gets worse we shall be glad 
to have you see her." That is the popular notion 
with reference to the usefulness of the ministry. 
When the Doctor can do no more, and the poor 
patient is worn out in body and mind, perhaps half 
unconscious — send for the minister. Called also on 
Mr. Gildersleeve and Mrs. Dodge. The latter sick 
in bed. The former able to be about. Walked out 
to Fort and was tired exceedingly. Found Doctor 
just starting his mess and wishing for my advice. 
Took hold immediately and undertook to manage it 
for him. Lieutenant Pierce dined with us and Dr. 
Halliday, Mr. Alden's assistant, arrived while we 
were at table. 

—62— 



April 4th. Very tired still and could do but little 
except to get ready for tomorrow. In evening after 
dinner walked down to town to meet the choir. Mrs. 
Street sick and could not meet there. Mr. Whipple, 
Mr. Smith and myself sung awhile in Mr. S.'s store, 
and then went over to the school house, where the 
Methodist choir was practicing. Miserable choir. 
Just received their new cabinet organ. Tendered 
use of it to us. After returning to bank met Mr. 
Lathrop and Mr. Benedict and had considerable 
conversation with them. After awhile Mr. Sher- 
man returned and I talked over church matters with 
him and found him about as much disgusted and an- 
noyed by the wicked apathy and delay of Colonel 
Carling as I am myself. Thought only help was to 
call meeting of vestry. 

Palm Sunday, April 5th. Beautiful morning. 
Large congregation, and service went off pleasantly. 
Quite a number of new faces and several church 
people. Preached with considerable spirit. Rode 
out with Mrs. Carling and Mr. Johnson, her nephew. 
Reading Spirit of Missions. General Gibbons of 
Fort Sanders arrived and stayed all night with us. 

April 6th. Bustled around and got breakfast and 
then General G. accepted invitation to Mr. Wool- 
ley's. Attended review of soldiers this morning. 
General Sheridan reviewed. General Harney, Gen- 
eral Auger, General Terry and others were spec- 
tators. 

April 7th. Note from Rev. Mr. Goodale saying 
would be up this evening. Went down town ex- 
pecting would be vestry meeting this evening, but 
Colonel Carling and others were off to the Black 
Hills with the Generals and Indian Commissioner. 
Met Mr. Goodale and after caUing upon Mr. Reed 

-63- 



spent rest of evening with him at RolHns House. 
Letter from Bishop Randall. 

April 8th. Showed Mr. G. the town. Drummed 
up the vestrymen for tonight. Brought Mr. G. out 
to Fort and got Doctor to show him around, as I 
have been suffering from neuralgia for a couple of 
days and wished a little rest. Attended the funeral 
of Theodore Landgraeber, a German who was as- 
sassinated in the midst of his family on Sunday 
night last. His poor wife was almost beside herself 
with grief, and it was a piteous sight. Got all the 
vestry together this evening except Mr. Street. I 
was instructed to write to Mr. Dunlap with refer- 
ence to passing our lumber over the N. W. R. R. ; 
Colonel Carling and Mr. Reed to order the lumber ; 
Mr. Sherman and myself to see about changing our 
church lots for some in town. Bade Mr. Goodale 
good-bye, as he is to go to Black Hills tomorrow 
and I cannot accompany him. 

April 9th. Attended funeral of Sergeant Potter, 
who died suddenly yesterday from effects of liquor. 
Visited in the hospital, Newmark, the musician, and 
Mr. Fay, a reporter, accompanying the Indian Com- 
missioner, who was taken sick with rheumatism. 
Offered Commendatory prayer and said few words 
to Private Sherbourne, whom I found evidently dy- 
ing. Beautiful day. Mr. and Mrs. Ball called. 

April loth. Good Friday. Walked down town 
after dinner. Letter from Rev. Mr. Morris ac- 
knowledging receipt of my letters for Sunday 
School children, and telling me I would receive 
letter from teacher of one of his Bible classes pro- 
posing to furnish some article for the church. Took 
tea with Mr. Carlisle. Held evening service and 
made few remarks at Mr. Morrow's. Had choir 
meeting immediately after at Mr. Street's and or- 

-64- 



ganized a choir. Stayed at bank with Messrs. Sher- 
man and Berger. 

Easter Even, April nth. Came out to Post this 
morning and officer came for me to attend funeral 
of Sherbourne. Unpacked box of roots and planted 
them. Found quite a number had perished, but still 
good many doing well. Tooth continuing to torment 
me with neuralgia. Went over to Hospital Steward 
and had it taken out, after which felt greatly re- 
lieved. Messrs. Bragg, Richards, and Prey came 
up in evening and, having had the Chaplain's organ 
brought over, we had some music. Visited in hos- 
pital. Got ready for Sunday's services. 

Easter, April 12th. Dismal mist this morning, 
which turned into a light snow towards noon. Doc- 
tor and I walked down to service. School, house 
full; only five stayed to Holy Communion. Our 
new choir did very well and added much to the in- 
terest of the services. Took up collection for Do- 
mestic Missions. Colonel Carling brought us up in 
his amhulance. Sent Mrs. Carling some moss from 
my root box. Wrote to Mr. Tuttle in a bad humor, 
because in a note received last week he evidently 
shows that he cares but little for his duties here and 
wishes to stay in Chicago just as long as he pos- 
sibly can. Such things do the ministry a great deal 
of harm. They provoke me. Spent some time in 
hospital. Read ''The Celestial Country" aloud to 
the patients. Gave Newmark his supper. Called 
after tea at Mr. W^oolley's and Major Noyes' with 
Dr. Alden. Read some of Father DeSmet's work 
on ''Western Missions and Missionaries," which 
Mr. Fay lent me. 

Sunday, ist after Easter, April 19th. Past week 
has been one of hard work, trouble, and anxiety of 
mind. Tried three times to get vestry together to 

-65- 



determine upon some builder and definitely settle 
matters, according to appointment of vestry last 
week. First Colonel Carling and Mr. Reed were off 
to the Black Hills with some railroad men; and 
next, Colonel was engaged with them another even- 
ing, and Mr. Woolley could not be there, and next, 
Colonel and Mr. W. were off to Chicago and the 
Colonel had vowed he would not now purchase the 
lumber but simply inquire about it! We wished 
them to have a vestry meeting to give him peremp- 
tory orders to (buy. As the necessity for building a 
frame has passed away (the weather now admitting 
of granite) that question has again been raised and 
we wished to discuss that. Rode down to town on 
Doctor's horse yesterday, and spent day in drum- 
ming up the vestry, seeing granite builders and car- 
penters. Came back by Quartermaster's Depot and 
saw Mr. Richards as to amount of lumber necessary 
for our chancel furniture as Mr. Woolley has ad- 
vised me to get Major Noyes to order the cedar 
from Fort McPherson, and he (Mr. W.) will have 
it brought upon his hay carts. Came home to tea 
and then prevailed upon Doctor to go down to ves- 
try meeting — Mrs. Carling having sent ambulance 
for our use. Went down although we were both 
wearied out. Waited and waited at bank and only 
Mr. Reed came! Amazed that Sherman failed us, 
but alas ! I seem bound to disappointment. Talked 
over matters informally and the sense of Doctor and 
Mr. Reed seemed to be that we had better try gran- 
ite. I despair of getting the vestry together again, 
and we shall be obliged to act informally. Came 
home sad enough. Today went down to service 
with Captain and Mrs. Ball, Mrs. Noyes and Mrs. 
Woolley. Our new choir added greatly to our ser- 
vices. The house was filled with people, and they 

—66— 



had to bring in benches from the other room. 
Preached with interest and almost completely ex- 
hausted after it. Talked some time with Mr. Lath- 
rop at the bank. Kindly asked me to go up to see 
him at the summit of Black Hills where he is now 
stationed. Organized Sunday School this afternoon 
with eighteen scholars. Not a single communicant 
there as a teacher! Asked Mr. Sherman to come, 
but he excused himself ! 

It almost makes me blush to think that most of 
those most earnest here are not the communicants. 
This afternoon, Mrs. Woolley having sent down for 
me, I witnessed the departure from the Post of four 
companies of the infantry, going out along the rail- 
road to protect the workmen. Very sorry to see 
them go. Exhausted tonight. Has been quite a 
pleasant day. 

April 20th. Ascertained the sentiment of the rest 
of the vestry with reference to grout which was in 
favor. Saw other persons about the matter and sat- 
isfied myself thoroughly as to feasibility. Visited 
City Hospital. Found Judge Ford very sick at Rol- 
lins House from bilious colic brought on by dissipa- 
tion. Sat with him some time. 

April 22nd. Finished copying my letters to Bish- 
ops Clarkson and Randall. Wrote to Bishop Ran- 
dall, but having poured out compliments to him with 
reference to my vestry, I did not copy the letter with 
the rest. Walked up Crow Creek this evening and 
gathered five kinds of flowers. A real rain came on 
and I was almost wet ; but I was so glad to see it I 
did not hurry. Sent some of my flowers to Mrs. 
Woolley, Mrs. Ball and Mrs. Noyes. 

April 23rd. Dismal day and quite cold. Attend- 
ed funeral of Wm. C. McClintis who in a delirium 
evaded his watchers in the Post hospital and wan- 

-67- 



dered off with nothing on except shirt and drawers. 
This was on the 6th inst. He was found six or 
eight miles from here dead, lying on his face on the 
plain. After I returned a gentleman came to ask me 
to marry a couple in Cheyenne on Saturday night. 

April 24th. Quite cold day, and dismal, and Doc- 
tor persuaded me not to go to Cheyenne. Prepared 
for Sunday. Wrote to mother and to Alfred Lee- 
son enclosing $5.00 for pocket money. 

April 25th. St. Mark's. Rode Doctor's horse 
down to Quartermaster's Depot and walked from 
there to Cheyenne. Found letter from mother and 
sister Julia. Things about as usual at home. Moth- 
er in better health. Note from Thomas Williamson 
from Rollins House ! I could not believe my eyes. 
He was here for two days and did not come to see 
me ! Brought a package from Mrs. Smith contain- 
ing a lot of French literature for use in hospital 
work, nice Httle case for paper and envelopes, and 
lot of flower seeds and tracts, and letter from Mrs. 
S., thinking I would be greatly surprised to see Mr. 
W. Alas ! that he did not give me that surprise. 
Has gone to Denver. Visited City Hospital and 
gave Jasper Charland the shoes which Newmark 
donated to him. Called at Mr. Morrow's and Mr. 
Manion's. The baby of the latter sick; prayed with 
them. Did variety of errands and business and 
then came home. Letter from Mr. Snyder of 
Omaha, to whom I had written with reference to 
church lots. He could do nothing, as he had not 
accepted the lot assigned to him in C. Sent my 
note with one from himself to the land agent of the 
Railroad Company in Omaha. Two companies of 
cavalry ordered off at 5 o'clock this P. M., Mr. 
Pierce and Dr. Halliday go, and Doctor and I are 
left alone in our mess. Rode down to city with 

—6S— 



Mrs. Wanless. At 7 o'clock took little Nettie Mor- 
row and went to Mr. Shakespeare's to marry Mr. 
Wm. H. H. Conley and Miss Sarah Scott. Nobody 
present except Mrs. Shakespeare and Mrs. Correy — 
gentlemen opposed. Dr. Latham and Dr. Correy 
came in afterwards. Put notices in papers of ser- 
vices and of this marriage. Looked in on choir 
meeting. Spent night at bank. 

Sunday, 2nd after Easter. Beautiful day. Had 
headache all night and all morning. About nineteen 
at Sunday School, but found so irregular could do 
nothing; and must try to have it at different hour. 
House full at services. Singing not as good as usual. 
Mrs. Carling's nurse at church and ran off as soon 
as service was over; so had to foot it out to Post. 
Stopped and took dinner with Mr. Richards at 
Quartermaster's Depot and spent some time in con- 
versation and singing with him and Mr. Prey and 
Mr. Benedict, who afterwards walked with me up 
to Post. Held services in Major Noyes' quarters 
at 8 o'clock. Tired out. 

April 27th. Beautiful, charming day. Rode down 
town hoping to hear about lots, but did not. Filed 
certificate of marriage of Mr. Conley and Miss 
Scott. Called on Judge Ford. Bought set of Ap- 
pleton's Encyclopedia of Mr. Abbott for $42, with 
money given me by Mrs. Smith to replace that which 
I lost in Philadelphia. Sent for Tune Books to 
Chicago, Mr. Morrison paying the telegram — $5 ! 
Sent Bishop Clarkson $10, my first marriage fee 
here, to devote to the Indian mission among Santee 
Sioux. Note from Thomas WiUiamson from Den- 
ver saying he would be here again in two weeks. 
Also a note from Mrs. Smith containing one from 
Mrs. Frances DuPont containing some cape goose- 
berry seeds, which I am very glad indeed to get 



Mr. Reed gave me pass to end of track and return 
and letter of introduction to Mr. Bentland, agent of 
Railroad Company at Laramie City, as I propose to 
go up there to secure lots for the church, so that 
they may, if possible, be in a desirable locality, and 
that we may not have the miserable experience 
which we have had here. Mr. Sherman made me a 
present of a shell watch-guard. Came home to din- 
ner. Mrs. Carling kindly came to take me riding. 
Mrs. Woolley accompanied us. Went some dis- 
tance above Post and then down to Cheyenne. 
Called at Mr. Mannion's, but did not find them in. 
After return, visited Post Hospital and distributed 
papers and tracts. Dug up little patch of ground in 
yard, the beginning of a garden. Spent evening in 
writing up this journal, and reading Father de Smet. 
May loth, Sunday 4th after Easter. After long 
waiting and a great deal of trouble and anxiety and 
writing, I have received the ultimatum of the Rail- 
road Company with reference to the church lots. 
They refuse to do anything further. We must abide 
by their remarkable generosity in giving us lots out 
of town or buy them ourselves. Save us from such 
generosity and such friends ! After spending yes- 
terday in hard work, came home and planted beets 
and spinach and some potato seed which Aunt Eliza- 
beth Mead sent me by mail. Showery all day yes- 
terday and rained quite hard last night. Seemed 
very strange and unusual. This has been a beautiful 
day, a little cool in Ihe morning. Rode down in am- 
bulance as far as Colonel Carling's office and started 
to walk rest of way, but Mr. Woolley and wife ov- 
ertook me and took me in. House nearly filled with 
people. Singing very poor and such that people 
could not join in! I was mortified. Preached on 
Confirmation. A Presbyterian clergyman was there, 

—70— 



who afterwards came up and spoke with me. Had 
terrible blow immediately after; Mr. Sherman came 
and announced that he will probably leave Chey- 
enne permanently on Thursday next ! Goes into the 
wholesale grocery business in Omaha and I am al- 
most broken-hearted. Mr. Berger goes on Tuesday, 
one of my candidates for confirmation. Mrs. Street 
announced that she would probably go too, another 
candidate. So it goes in this restless mass of hu- 
manity. A Mr. Wolfe came and presented a letter 
of introduction , from Rev. Mr. Foote of Salt Lake. 
Took lunch with Mr. Street. At Sunday School 
had twenty-eight scholars. Taught them two hymns 
and tunes. Had to teach them all together. Went 
down to ibank, but did not gain admittance. Wanted 
to see Sherman. Alas my friend ! Walked out as 
far as Colonel Carling's with Mr. Isaacs, a lawyer 
of C, and had a pleasant talk. Spent a while at Mr. 
Woolley's in the evening. 

May 13th. Walked down to town after dinner 
and went with Mr. Sherman to Mite Society at Mrs. 
Street's. Had pleasant evening with the goodly 
number of guests. Forty-two dollars were handed 
in. Stayed with Mr. Sherman at bank. Sorrowing 
more and more that my friend is to leave me in the 
wilderness. 

May 14th. Finding myself worthless for anything 
else, I went up to Fort Sanders with Generals Sher- 
man, Auger, Terry, Colonel Carling, and Mrs. C, 
Mr. Woolley and Mrs. W., and Mrs. Ball and oth- 
ers. General Gibbon, commander of the Post, invit- 
ed me to lunch. Lieutenant Pierce, whom I was 
very glad to see again, lent me his horse and a guide 
and I rode over to the new town of Laramie to see 
Major Bent about assigning us a lot for church pur- 
poses. Found he had returned to the Fort to din- 

—71— 



ner, so I galloped back. Before coming home I suc- 
ceeded in seeing him and he kindly promised to set 
aside one for us, subject to my approval. Lunched 
at General Gibbons'. Had pleasant visit, but too 
much hurried to be fully enjoyed. Coming home, 
had considerable talk with Mr. Marsh, a Presbyte- 
rian clergyman from Black Hawk, Colo., who has 
been in Cheyenne to look after Presbyterian inter- 
ests. 

May 1 6th. Down town nearly all day at work on 
church questions. In evening vestry assembled at 
Dr. Alden's quarters. We were, owing to the alter- 
ation in our ideas, but not in our draft, able only to 
decide upon the vexed question as to where we 
should build- Determined to build upon our own 
lots already donated by the Railroad Company. Pre- 
pared for Sunday. Almost exhausted. 

Sunday, 5th after Easter, May 17th. Mrs. Wool- 
ley drove down with me to service. Made address 
on confirmation, doubtful if there will be anyone to 
be confirmed. Attendance was not large, owing to 
muddy state of streets, there having been consider- 
able rain lately, and a very hard one on Friday after- 
noon. Sunday School was small, also, from same 
cause. Took leave of dear Sherman with a heavy 
heart. Mr. Woolley sent down ambulance for me. 
Major Jackson, Lieutenant Mole of Sanders, and 
another gentleman rode up with me. Took walk 
with Mr. Tuttle up the creek. Mr. Palmer and I 
got into a discussion of church matters which we 
continued till late in evening. He is a rabid Baptist. 
Raining some this evening. 

May i8th. Went down town and conferred with 
the granite man and got his estimates for the church, 
which far exceeded what we anticif)ated, and took 
from me my last hope with reference to that mode 

—72— 



of building the church. Submitted the plans to Mr. 
Preshaw for his estimats. A rain having come on, 
I took advantage of an ambulance with Mr. Tuttle 
and came home. Feeling very sad at loss of Mr. 
Sherman. I wrote to him as a relief. Letter from 
Mrs. Smith. 

May 19th. Doctor and I rode down as far as 
Colonel Carling's and walked down from there to 
town. Got plans from Mr. Preshaw and submitted 
them to Mr. Murray. Called on Mr. Casement and 
Mr. Carlisle. The latter I fear will draw Dack from 
confirmation. Had long talk with him on subject. 
Called on Mrs. Mills, who has recently come ready 
for confirmation, but at the last she draws back. 
Called on Mrs. Shakespeare and had some talk with 
her. Not prepared. Mrs. Street came in and an 
nounced that she was ready. Called to inquire after 
old Mr. Ward, who is not well. Walked out to Pos-i 
and found myself almost exhausted. Visited hos- 
pital after supper. 

May 20th. Dismal day ; raining every few mm- 
utes. Wrote a long letter to Rev. Mr. Perry, my 
classmate in Divinity School, in answer to a letter 
proposing to take some special work about the 
church for his Sunday School to work for. Pro- 
posed to him the chancel furniture. Received a let- 
ter from Uncle Joseph Cook of Milton, N. D., sav- 
ing all are well. Also from Jack Eoff and a package 
of flower seeds from him. Lieutenant Pierce came 
down from Fort Sanders this evening. A Mr. Ruth- 
ledge, a builder, came in and made estimates and a 
bid for the church. Bought a carpet from Colonel 
Green, late of Fort Laramie, for $30.00. After sup- 
per Colonel Carling and Judge Ford arrived, and 
Mr. Woolley and we had a vestry meeting, rejecting 
the granite question, determining to build of wood, 

—7Z— 



and giving the contract to Mr. Preshaw. Colonel 
Carling is to order the lumber at once. The greac- 
est unanimity of thought and feeling prevailed. I 
feel inexpressible relief that the matter is settled, 
and that something can now be done at once. Laus 
Deo! 

LETTER TO BISHOP RANDALL 

Cheyenne, D. T., June 23rd, 1868. 
My Dear Bishop : — Today some of the lumber 
arrived for the church, and probably the remainder 
will be here tonight. It is all paid for ; also the 
freight over the N. W. R. R., which we got at half 
price. Over the Union Pacific R. R. it was shipped 
free. All the windows and sash and door frames 
have been made here, and are ready to put in. All 
so far is paid for, and we have about $300 in treas- 
ury. The gentlemen have all been very busy, and 
they have not been out collecting lately. They are 
going out, however, now. I do not know how they 
are likely to succeed, for everything is very dull 
here now. We hope to be in the church one month 
from this time. Will it suit you to send us a draft 
for the remainder of your subscription some time 
soon? I write thus early supposing you are still in 
New Mexico and will not be back for some little 
time. Since you were here it has been the occasion 
of universal regret that we were compelled to build 
on our lots which are five blocks from a single re- 
spectable dv/elling. While up at Laramie City the 
other day to see Mr. Snyder about getting our lum- 
ber over the Pacific railroad free, I fell in with Mr. 
James A. Evans, who is acting in Mr. Reed's place 
as superintendent on construction while Mr. R. is 
absent at Salt Lake. He inquired after the church, 
etc. I told him of our difficulty with reference to a 

—74— 



lot. He said, "Well, now, I think I can help you out 
of your trouble." He sent for a map of Cheyenne 
and pointed out to me where he had a lot on the 
corner of Eighteenth and Ferguson streets, one 
block north of the postoffice, and on the southeast 
corner of the block upon which the school house 
stands. An admirable location ; quite central and 
good. This he told me he would resign in our favor 
at the original valuation, $450. Told him I thought 
we would take it. The vestrymen agreed, and today 
I have accomplished the transfer. I propose to pay 
for it by the Sunday collections, i. e., after making 
the first payment, which I propose to raise by special 
subscription ($150). However, it is confidently ex- 
pected that when General Dodge learns the circum- 
stances he will surely remit the whole and give us 
the lot. He is expected here tomorrow, and Colonel 
Carling is to see him. I trust he may be successful. 
He ought to be. 

Two or three of the ladies got up a strazvberry 
festival last Thursday night, which was very pleas- 
ant and very successful. It was gotten up in two 
days, and they cleared about $250. It was for an 
organ. 

I will let you know when the church is ready for 
consecration. I hope Bishop Clarkson will be able 
to come up. 



June 30th. Have spent the past month in hard 
work for the church and now I have to record that 
I have succeeded in changing the location for the 
church from Nineteenth and Dodge (four or five 
squares from any dwelling) to Eighteenth and Fer- 
guson, one square from postofiice. This accomp- 
lished through kindness of Joseph A. Evans, Esq., 
of the Pacific railroad, whom I met at Laramie and 

—75— 



who, finding the trouble I was in with reference to 
the location of the church, resigned his right to the 
lot in our favor at the original valuation of $450.00. 
Last week, in company with the city engineer, Mr. 
Winsor, and Mr. R. Lincoln, I assisted in staking 
out the lot. On the evening of the day before yes- 
terday I called on General Dodge and Mr. Ames, 
Pres., U. P. R. R., and others of the Directors, in- 
tending to ask General D. to give us this lot instead 
of the others. Finding Colonel Carling there, and 
that he had already presented the matter and re- 
ceived a gracious answer to the effect, "He thought 
there would be no difficulty about it, he would speak 
with Mr. House as soon as he came," I did not 
introduce the subject. Some of the lumber arrived 
over a week ago ; but, of course, that which we 
wanted last. The remainder arrived today and I 
am now having it hauled on the ground. Mr. Pre- 
shaw expects to commence work on it tomorrow. 
He has, while waiting for lumber, gotten out the 
door and window frames and sash and cross. I de- 
termined to devote my wedding fees for the present 
to ornamenting the chancel window with the (com- 
paratively) new process of "Diaphanie." The mate- 
rials have arrived and yesterday I tried to transfer 
them to glass, beginning with St. Peter. Did not 
succeed to my satisfaction ; yet the work looks pret- 
ty well. The balusters and rail for the chancel, of 
red cedar, are nearly all completed. Mr. Richards 
and workmen at Colonel Carling's are getting it up, 
and give the work to the church. Mr. Stearns con- 
tributes the work on the Bishop's chair. Mrs. Street 
and Mrs. Morrow got up a festival within thirty-six 
hours which proved a great success. They cleared 
about $250.00, which is to go towards a musical in- 
strument. Went this morning to administer the 

—76- 



i 



S. Com. to a sick man in city hospital named Mc- 
Cabe, but found him dying — did not seem to rec- 
ognize me. Very sorry, for he seemed earnestly to 
desire it. After accomplishing various work, came 
out to Colonel Carling's and told him what I had 
accomplished. Came home to dinner, and towards 
evening rode down and called at Colonel Carling's. 
Mrs. C. received me coldly. Did not ask me to come 
again. Why they do not come to church, why they 
are changed toward me I cannot tell. Do not in- 
quire, as I hope they will soon get over their funk, 
if they are in one. Otto Prey gave me a bunch of 
radishes out of his garden; they were very nice. 
Weather is growing very warm ; the evenings are 
generally quite cool and even cold. There is still a 
great profusion of flowers on the plains. The grass 
is growing dry and yellow. 

July ist, 1868. Very hot day. Rode down to town 
on Mrs. Woolley's horse. Saw lumber on the church 
lot. Saw Mr. Dearborn about the lot and did num- 
ber of errands. Attended funeral of McCabe. 
Walked to graveyard in broiling sun. Grave too 
small and had to wait good while for it to be en- 
larged. Almost sick from the heat. Letter from 
Rev. Mr. Robbins, from whom I was very glad to 
hear. Dr. Alden tried his hand at putting "The Last 
Supper" upon one of the chancel window panes and 
succeeded very well. I stained rocking chair for Mr. 
Woolley and tried similar one for myself, but it had 
been varnished and I could not get varnish off, so 
did not succeed very well. Lieutenant Tompkins 
and wife arrived this evening and as table was rath- 
er crowded, Mrs. Woolley invited me to take my 
meals there for present. Called on Captain Ball, 
who is suffering from ulcerated legs. Had very 
agreeable call. Also short one on Mr. Tuttle. 

—77— 



July 2nd. Another hot day. Thermometer 85 
degrees in my room. Rode down town with Mr. 
Woolley. Found that there is a whole carload of 
heavy lumber still behind and that Mr. Preshaw 
cannot do anything until it arrives ! Somehow noth- 
ing runs smoothly. Went to see Mrs. Krause, who 
is quite low with child-bed. Thought some better. 
Worked awhile on chairs. i\fter tea Mrs. W. and I 
drove down to city and called on Mr. and Mrs. Case- 
ment, Mrs. Gosline, Mrs. Clayton and Miss Wood. 
Forgot to record a very pleasing announcement of 
last night. Mr. Sherman drove up as I was sitting 
on Mrs. Woolley's veranda after tea, and in conver- 
sation told me to my great joy that he had last night 
received a letter which determined him to stay here, 
after for a long time having had under consideration 
a very favorable offer of business in Omaha. Thank 
God ! May he still be a blessing and help to the 
church here. Air quite cool tonight — 6y degrees in 
my room. 

July 3rd. Made some attempt at writing sermon, 
but gave it up at last. Mr. Lincoln concluded to 
take an offer from Mr. Reed of a situation as rod- 
man on surveying party for U. P. R. R. towards Salt 
Lake and so started this evening. Mr. Tompkins 
and I rode down to city with him. Called on Dr. 
Henry, whose wife I buried last week. Was just 
only engaged with business. Major Van Vost as- 
sumed command of Fort Russell today, to the great 
relief of many who dislike General Stevenson. Wit- 
nessed parade this evening with Mr. William Ruth. 
Temperature much pleasanter today. 

July 4th. Spent nearly whole day planning Rec- 
tory and position of buildings on church lot. Rode 
down to town toward evening. Called to see Mrs. 
Krause — glad to find her better. Letter from Mr. 

-78- 



Perry. His Sunday School gave me $68.75 to de- 
vote to some special object for the church. Letter 
from Felgemaker with reference to an organ. Called 
at Mr. Tuttle's after tea. Temperature very pleas- 
ant today. Winds rather high. 

Sunday, fourth after Trinity, July 5th. Quite 
hot again. Rode down to service with Mrs. Wool- 
ley. Tolerable congregation. Singing wretched. 
Preached with good deal of interest. Eight per- 
son at S. Com. Took lunch with Mr. Smith. Large 
Sunday School. Called to see Mr. Bradstreet after 
Sunday School. Dr. Alden kindly sent down car- 
riage for me. After tea took Mrs. A. over to service. 
Mr. Tuttle's sermon was a terrible hodge-podge — 
felt sorry and annoyed. Sat up late reading The 
Churchman and retired exhausted. 

July 6th. Rode down town with Mr. Pierce. Con- 
sulted with Mrs. Street about ordering a portable 
pipe organ. Left it with me, so I got money draft 
for $241.00 and enclosed it to Derrick, Felgemaker 
& Co., Buffalo, New York. Letter from the Dia- 
phanie dealer enclosing bill of some new plates which 
I ordered and telling me he had not the rest on hand. 
Wrote him again ordering others. WVote to J. E. 
House, Esq., land agent of U. P. R. R., with refer- 
ence to our church lot. Worked on Diaphanie part 
of afternoon, and then took ride with Mr. Alden 
and family up the creek to the camp of Major Jack- 
son and Major Whittlesey of the Thirtieth Infantry. 
Called at General Stevenson's in evening on Mrs. S. 
and daughter, and to say good-bye to Mrs. Brent. 

July 7th. Spent nearly whole day on Diaphanie 
and succeeded in cleaning the paper off the pictures 
already on glass. Read some in afternoon and fin- 
ished ''Golbourn's Farewell Counsels." Walked 
down by creek after tea and gathered some botan- 

—79— 



ical specimens. Called on Lieutenant Tompkins and 
wife, but found Mrs. Tompkins sick. Terrific blow 
before dark, which cooled the air very much, weath- 
er having been very hot during day. 

July 8th. Rode down to town with Doctor and 
Lieutenant Tompkins. Found at railroad that re- 
mainder of our lumber will be here today. Laus 
Deo! Called on Mrs. Mills; still troubled with 
much serving on Mrs. Robson, sick, and going back 
to Denver. On Mrs. Halliday — better. Spoke with 
her on confirmation. Having learned that there is a 
great rumpus about taking our melodeon away from 
Miss Farley, who borrowed it to train her children 
for an exhibition ; borrowed it without my knowl- 
edge and without the consent of Mrs. Street, into 
whose charge I had given it to dispose of ; and that 
the Methodists say (some of whose children are in 
the school) that if we take it away they will lock up 
theirs next Sunday, so that we shall not use it, 
went to see Miss Farley and explain the matter. 
Gave her the use of it till it is disposed of. Dis- 
gusted at the foolish and absurd position of the 
Methodists. Evidently want something to make a 
quarrel about. Received Diaphanie designs by mail, 
and Dr. Alden put upon glass "His Blessing Little 
Children." Reading "Bible Teaching in Nature." 
Little rain in evening. Called on Mrs. Woolley and 
Mrs. Wells after tea. Colonel Carling wishes me to 
call vestr}^ meeting, which I did accordingly for Fri- 
day evening at 7 o'clock at Colonel's office. Letter 
from Jack Eoff, who is now enjoying vacation in 
the country. Very warm day, but delightful air to- 
night. 

July 9th. Intensely hot, 92 degrees in the shade, 
125 or 130 degrees in the sun. Found the remain- 
der of the lumber at the depot. Went at once to get 

—80— 



man to haul it on the ground. Called on Dr. Be- 
dell's family and Mr. Schiber. Met Mrs. Street and 
told her the state of the case with reference to the 
melodeon. Very much vexed. Dined with Mr. 
Sherman at Ford House. Did some errands for Dr. 
Alden and came home in big wagon. Spent remain- 
der of afternoon in Diaphanie. Exhausted. 

July loth. Very hot in the morning. Drove Doc- 
tor's horse down to town. Saw lumber on the lot. 
Called on Mrs. Rutledge, the poor woman whose 
husband committed suicide some time ago. Church- 
woman, but has been able to come to service only 
once. Called on Mr. Slaughter's family, whom I 
found quite pleasant people. Did some errands and 
came home to dinner. Prepared for Sunday. Wrote 
to Moller for some materials for Diaphanie — to Der- 
rick, Felgemaker & Co., to send me No. 5 organ in- 
stead of second-hand No. 6, if not too late — to 
Wenderoth, Taylor & Brown, enclosing draft for 
$4.00. Quite a delightful rain this evening. Doctor 
and I walked down to Colonel Carling's office to at- 
tend vestry meeting, but Judge Ford and Mr. Sher- 
man failed to come, and Mr. WooUey was too sick 
to go, so we had to give it up. Worked some at 
Diaphanie. Spent Vv^hile at Mr. Tuttle's. 

July nth. Worked at removing paper from the 
pictures nearly all day. Rained quite hard this 
evening again. Has been dull all day. Called at 
Mr. Tuttle's and Mr. Woolley's. Dr. Munroe ar- 
rived from Fort Laramie. 

Sunday, 5th after Trinity, July 12th. Delightful 
day. Doctor drove Mrs. S. and myself down to 
service, but having bad headache did not come in 
himself. Rather thin congregation. No musical in- 
strument there and no choir. I started the Gloria in 
excelsis and Mr. Smith and Mr. Hutchinson the 

—81— 



psalms and hymns. Good Sunday School. Dined 
with Mr. Webster. Received note and a quitclaim 
deed for the church lot from Mr. House. Thank 
God ! After so much tribulation that matter is set- 
tled to our satisfaction. Mrs. WooUey called for me 
and brought me home. Exceedinly tired and ex- 
hausted. x\ttended Post service in evening. Very 
few there. Mr. Tuttle preached extemporaneously 
and it was much better than his usual efforts. 

July 13th. Rode down to town with Dr. Munroe 
and Mr. Pierce. Called on Mrs. Morrow and gained 
permission to get materials for cushions for church. 
Found Mr. Preshaw commenced work on church 
this morning. Did lot of errands and came home. 
Put the last touches on the four panes of the chancel 
window on which I have been working. After tea 
Doctor and I drove down to vestry meeting at Col- 
onel Carling's. Judge Ford and Charles Sherman 
came and we had a very pleasant meeting talking 
over the finances and the lot, and the position of the 
church thereon. 

July 14th. Rode down to town in Doctor's car- 
riage. Called at Mr. Morrow's, Mr. Steam's, Mr. 
Wardman's, Mr. WilHs' and Mr. Dayton's. Found 
Mrs. Dayton quite weak and sick and about to start 
East as the only hope of restoration. Dined with 
Mr. Sherman and then went and assisted in laying 
the foundation for the sills of the church. Went to 
the depot at train time and welcomed Bishop Clark- 
son and Rev. Dr. Keene of Milwaukee. Mr. Tuttle 
and I persuaded Bishop Clarkson to stay with us 
over night, but Dr. Keene determined to go on to 
Laramie. Took Bishop around to see the church 
foundation. Mr. T. asked him to preach at Post, so 
service was gotten up on short notice. I read the 
lessons and prayers and Bishop preached from St. 



Matt: xviii:4. The humility of the Httle child. It 
was a delightful extempore effort. Sat with Bishop 
and Mr. T. till ii o'clock. Air delightful tonight. 

July 15th. Bishop Clarkson came in soon after I 
was dressed, while I was parleying with my wash- 
woman. Was much pleased with my chancel deco- 
rations. New art to him. Mr. Tuttle engaged to 
call for me to go and see Bishop off, but after bolt- 
ing my breakfast, as he did not come, I went to his 
house and lo ! he had gone off without me ! I was 
very much vexed. Lieutenant Pierce lent me his 
horse and I rode down, but too late to see him. Let- 
ter from Charley Cook enclosing photograph of him- 
self. Met Mr. Lathrop, who asked me to go up to 
his place in Black Hills with him this evening to 
have some trout fishing. Concluded to do so ; but 
notification was sent me to officiate at a wedding this 
evening, so o'bliged to defer it. Dined at Mr. Spar- 
hawk's and had conversation after dinner. Called 
at Dr. Corey's and as a rain came up, made a long 
call. Priced some buildings which thought might do 
for a Rectory. Lady to be married arrived on the 
train from the East at 7 o'clock. Married them at 
the Magnolia Laundry on O'Neil street. Received 
$5.00, which goes toward my window. Dr. Girard 
came up on train and I rode out home with him. 
Called at Mr. Tuttle's to inquire if he had heard of 
my Sunday School books. Explained his running 
away from me this morning. 

July 1 6th. Spent mosl of day in town making 
calls and performing other work. Came out to the 
Black Hills on evening train. Did not meet Mr. 
Lathrop at the "Tie Pile" as agreed, and his clerk 
was not there to inform me if he would be there, so 
after waiting about a half hour I started to walk 
over to his camp, seven miles off. Had been good 

-83- 



deal of rain and the grass was wet. Got into a 
swamp and got thoroughly wet up to the knees. 
When I got some distance, and it was growing dark, 
I saw a man in a buggy at some distance, stopping 
and evidently observing me. At first I felt some- 
what afraid, but still continued, and at last, when 
within gun shot, I waved my handkerchief, as signal 
of peace. As I approached, to my joy, found it was 
Mr. Lathrop ! He had been detained, but thought 
he should reach the station in time. The night air 
grew chilly and I was cold when we arrived at the 
camp. A Frenchman was routed up, and in a while 
gave us a comfortable supper and we were soon 
comfortable. 

July 17th. Rising this morning, I was charmed 
by the beauty of the situation which my friend has 
chosen for his temporary residence. On the top of 
a steep hill, rapidly descending on every side, and 
from the bay window in the eastern side of the 
house commanding a most extended and charming 
view of wild mountain scenery. Mr. Lathrop found, 
after an absence of a couple of days, that his camp 
was all in an uproar and many men drunk. Intended 
to go fishing with me, but the state of the camp pre- 
vented, so I went alone, although he offered a man, 
but I thought I should enjoy myself alone since my 
friend could not be with me. I walked and climbed 
rocks until I was nearly exhausted, and at last came 
to Pish Creek. The scenery was grand, and the 
flowers exquisite and in great profusion. Up to 3 
o'clock I had caught but one fish, although I tried 
different kinds of flies. At last I abandoned them 
and, having caught a fat grasshopper, I pulled him 
in pieces and tried him. With him I caught ten or 
twelve trout ! Then it was necessary for me to start 
home. Came near being lost on my return, but at 

-84- 



last I came where I found timber had been cut and 
I knew I was not far from the camp. Mr. Lathrop 
had gone away on business, but he returned by bed 
time. Almost exhausted by my day's labor. 

July 1 8th. My friend expected to take me to the 
station this morning, but we overslept ourselves. I 
spent the forenoon in rest and preparation for Sun- 
day, expecting to come down in afternoon. We 
started, but when we got within ten miles' drive of 
the tie pile, the train passed and I was fixed for Sun- 
day ! I was very sorry, but it could not be helped. 
More troubled on account of the Sunday School 
than the service. However, if it must be so, I 
thought, it is all right, and it is surely exceedingly 
agreeable to lengthen out my visit with Mr. Lathrop. 
He drove me round by ''Cache le Poudre Rock," 
whose grand rugged beauty I enjoyed very much. 
Most of our drive was in the rain, but as we had a 
top buggy and did not get wet, we enjoyed it. Com- 
menced reading Mrs. H. B. Stowe's "Agnes of Sor- 
rento." Spent very pleasant evening. 

Sunday, 6th after Trinity, July 19th. Most charm- 
ing morning. Read the lessons and other parts of 
the service, sung some, and then settled down in the 
bay window to read and enjoy the magnificent view. 
Mr. L. was called away a good deal of the time to 
confer with men who only come in from their camps 
on Sundays. But when he did come in he was very 
agreeable. Business troubled him when I first ar- 
rived, and he was very moody, but he has greatly 
improved on acquaintance. Late in the evening we 
drove out, although it was raining again. My friend 
is so passionately devoted to flowers that we never 
went out but he brought some home, and this even- 
ing "he gathered them iii the rain. Missed supper 
again, so the Frenchman catered for us and did 

-85- 



very well. Spent evening in reading aloud to Mr. 
Iv. and in very pleasant conversation. Did not get 
to bed till very late after making arrangements to 
get up very early and meet the passenger train. 

July 20th. J\Ian did not come to call us until it 
was too late to get off. However, we got up and 
had an early breakfast. Then Mr. L. proposed to 
take me to the lo o'clock train. Took up three little 
pine trees from the hill on which the house stands, 
hoping that they may grow as souvenirs of a very 
pleasant visit. Also picked up some surface speci- 
mens of the silver ore, near a mine over which the 
house is built. We started — stopped and picked 
flowers — missed the train again — tried to get "Sher- 
man," hoping to overtake the train, but were en- 
tangled in the country and did not get there until 
noon. Mr. L. took train for Fort Sanders, and I 
was obliged to stay until 5 130 p. m. Taking leave 
of Mr. h., he kindly urged me to come up again 
next week, saying he should have better arrange- 
ments and would get me to the train on time the 
next time I came. Walked down to the Summit 
Rock after a very good lunch at Mr. Tibbits'. Gath- 
ered a delicate little bouquet to send to Sister Julia in 
a letter. Found the monkshood and the cyclamen (I 
think) growing at the Summit. Plants which in the 
East have been introduced from Europe. Arranged 
large bouquet for Charley Sherman, and then wrote 
letter to Julia and one to Charley Hamlin. On the 
train I found Harry Blynn and had pleasant conver- 
sation with him. W^hen I arrived in Cheyenne found 
letter from Mr. Hayden of the Milwaukee-Chicago 
Union, saying Moore, Kelly & Co. of Chicago have 
made an assignment and Mr. K. has sent my order 
for S. S. books to him to fill. After three months 
they show some signs of life by failing! I think 

—8^- 



they richly deserve it. I was never so vexed with 
anything in my Hfe. I hope I am now to get out of 
this annoyance. Fortunately found an ambulance 
coming out, so that I got out home. Folks were 
very glad to see me, and were wondering what had 
become of me. Many inquiries had been made about 
me. There was a large congregation on Sunday, but 
no Sunday School, as it rained after dinner. 

July 2 1 St. Drove down town this morning. Vis- 
ited the church and found things progressing very 
nicely. Cross was raised while I was there. I think 
the whole is going to look very pretty. Did some 
errands, talked some time with Charley Sherman 
and started out home. Met Major Jackson and 
Lieutenant Link just going to stable for a horse, so 
I took them in. Afterwards drove back to Colonel 
Carling's camp for Dr. Alden, but he was not ready 
to come. Ordered three sheets of Diaphanie for Mr. 
Lathrop. Called at Mr. Woolley's and Mr. Ball's. 
Had pleasure of introduction to General Harney at 
Mr. Woolley's. Mrs. Ball gave me a couple of boxes 
of flowers which had been upset. Fixed them and 
gave to Mrs. Alden. Dr. Alden had letter from Ma- 
jor Noyes at Fort McPherson, and in it he informed 
me that he had procured cedar lumber for me at last, 
by sending out his men for the logs and having them 
sawed up at the Post. Joyful news to me. Wrote 
to let him know how to ship it. 

July 22nd. Rode down to Quartermaster's Depot 
in the sick ambulance. Conferred with Colonel Car- 
ling about the painting and glazing, etc. Walked 
from there to town. On advice of Mr. Preshaw, 
tried to dispose of the ceiling lumber for the church 
in order to try to have it plastered instead. Did not 
succeed. However, riding home with Mr. Woolley 
in evening, on mentioning it, he offered to take the 

-87- 



lumber. Building progressed nicely, putting on the 
sheeting. Lunched at Mr. Smith's store. Called 
upon to go to the RoUin s House to see a poor young 
man dying from an accidental gun shot wound, name 
Samuel Beers, conductor on the railroad. Hardly 
conscious. Tried to say a few words to him, but 
apparently of Httle use. Prayed with him and com- 
mended him into the hands of a merciful Saviour. 
The gentlemen present were affected to tears. Sat a 
good while with him, hoping there might be a lucid 
interval. Went to call upon a Baptist, Dr. D.., stop- 
ping at Mr. Whipple's. Returned to the sick man, 
hoping to find him able to comprehend me, but he 
was evidently sinking. A sad sight to see a fine, 
manly form, in full health and strength, so suddenly 
cut down ! Of how small account is our earthly 
life! The care, and trial, and trouble, and anxiety 
of early childhood and youth, and the struggles of 
manhood to be brought to so sudden a termination — 
to go out like a spark. If there were no hereafter, 
what a waste! If there is no preparation for the 
glorious portion for which a good Father designs us, 
how useless is it all ! What a terrible waste, and 
trifling! Called at Mr. Stearns' to tell him about 
the cedar lum'ber and inquire about the materials for 
cushioning the church. Mrs. S. gave me a dish of 
ice cream. Rode out with Mr. Woolley and General 
Auger and son. General brought me news of Rev. 
Mr. Poote of Salt Lake City. Called with Rev. Mr. 
Tuttle on Lieutenant Benner of Eighteenth Infantry 
in evening. Found him and his wife very agreeable. 
Note from Moller saying has sent me more varnish 
for my picture work. Weather very pleasant today. 
July 23rd. Rode down to Colonel Carling's in 
ambulance and conferred with him about plastering 
the church. Seemed favorable to it. Met Mr. Wool- 

—88— 



ley there, and I rode with him to the church. Con- 
ferred with Mr. Preshaw and Mr. Myers with ref- 
erence to the plastering. Tried to find Mr. Jones to 
see if he would make a bid on same, but he was not 
in town. Inquired for Mr. Beers — poor fellow died 
this morning and body was sent on the train to meet 
his sister at Omaha. Found Mr. Lathrop in town 
and had a pleasant chat and dined with him at 
''Ford's." Wrote to Brother Hitchings at Denver 
to let him know I received the Prayer Books and to 
answer his last two letters. Saw Robinson to talk 
over painting. Rode out with General Slemmer and 
General Hunt to the Post, having with us in ambu- 
lance a couple of young eagles which Mr. Tuttle had 
procured from the Indians. Called at Mr. Wool- 
ley's in the evening and met Generals Harney, Auger 
and Wessels and Lieutenant Benner and Major 
Jackson. Delightful temperature today. Cool this 
evening. Wrote to Mr. S. B. Reed, telling him the 
progress of the church here and asking if he will 
dispose of his lot which lies alongside of the church 
lot. Also to Cousin Charley Cook to tell him that I 
think he would succeed if he came out here, and of 
the prospects of the place. Enclosed photograph of 
self to Uncle Lewis Cook. 

July 24th. Rode down in hospital ambulance to 
Colonel Carling's and told him about plastering. 
Walked from there to Cheyenne. Made bargain 
with Myers, the plasterer. Attended to various 
things. Called on Mrs. Lafferty and Mrs. Hutchin- 
son. Came up with Mr. Tuttle. Called on Mrs. 
Ball and Mrs. Woolley to bid them good-bye, the 
former going to Boston, the latter to Omaha. Com- 
menced writing up the minutes of the vestry, in or- 
der that they may be preserved. Progressing nicely 
with the church and it is greatly admired. Rather 
warm, but pleasant. 

-8^ . 



July 25th, St. James' Day. Quite hot today, but 
delightful breeze and cool in the evening. Rode 
down to Colonel Carling's in hospital ambulance ; 
conferred with him about building and then walked 
to town. Authorized Mr. Preshaw to wainscot the 
church instead of plastering down to baseboards. 
Tried staining for the rafters. Made final arrange- 
ments with the plasterer. Called at Mr. Ward's. 
Mrs. Ward announced that she was going to have 
her child baptized in our church (she is a R. C.)- 
Old Mr. W. absent at W. Blufif. Called a moment 
on Mrs. Connelly. Letter from Rev. Mr. Hinman 
of the Santee Sioux Mission, acknowledging my 
small contribution and telling me they were pros- 
pering. Wish I were with him ! Rode out with Mr. 
Tuttle. Called on Colonel and Mrs. Adams in even- 
ing, and on Mr. Tuttle for something to give my 
Sunday School scholars ; my books have not yet got 
through. Dr. Girard got back from Fort Laramie 
this evening, very glad to get back. 

LE:TTKR to bishop RANDALL 

Chkyknne, Wyc, July 30th, 1868. 

My Dear Bishop : — Yours of 27th inst. reached 
me today, and contained the check for $500 for the 
church, for which we are very much obliged. 

The advertisement for the school I presented to 
Dr. Bedell, editor and proprietor of the Cheyenne 
Argus, and he said he should put it into the daily 
issue and print it right along. I should like to put 
it into one of the other papers, also. I will see what 
I can do. 

We are getting on very nicely with the church. 
We are out of debt — at least will be tomorrow when 
a small bill or two is paid — and w£» have several 
hundred dollars in the treasury. 



I have been at work shellacking the rafters, and I 
intended to do the whole work of staining and var- 
nishing them also. But with the great clumsy lad- 
ders which alone are to be had here I fear I shall 
have to give it up. The labor is too severe. I have 
undertaken it to save money for other objects — e. g., 
a fence and other necessary expenses. I shall do 
the staining and varnishing of the pews, wainscot- 
ting, etc. 

Everybody is quite proud of our church already. 
It is an ornament to the place. 

I have a portable pipe organ on the way. It was 
in Chicago last Saturday. I hope the people will 
find it satisfactory. I rather went against their 
judgment, or rather impression in getting it instead 
of a reed instrument, which I detest. 

After three months of waiting my Sunday School 
library, etc., has arrived. I was never so tried about 
anything in my life. They came at last from the 
Milwaukee Church Union, Messrs. Moore, Kelly & 
Co. of Chicago having made an assignment. They 
deserved to fail, being so negligent of business. 

Hoping soon to welcome you, I am, 

Yours in Christ and His S. Church, 

Jose:ph W. Cook. 

LE:TTe:r to bishop RANDALL 

CHEY:eNNE, Wyc, Sept. 7th, 1868. 
My De:ar Bishop : — Yours of 3rd inst. I received 
on my return on Saturday last from a tour to Fort 
Sanders, Laramie City and the Black Hills. I had 
premonitory symptoms that I had used my strength 
up to the last point, on the Saturday before the Con- 
secration of the Church ; but I kept up until after 
you returned to Denver. I was then quite wretched 
and sick, merely from overwork, which showed itself 

—91— 



in prostration and a violent attack of dyspepsia. I 
should have gone off at once to a quiet retreat of my 
friend, Mr. A. G. Lathrop, in the Black Hills, as I 
intended to do. But the gentlemen thought I ought 
to stay that week and direct the painting of the out- 
side of the church and the cushioning, and the mak- 
ing of the chancel furniture. I tried to do so, but I 
was so wretched all the week that I concluded to ask 
Mr. Tuttle to take my service for the 30th, and on 
Saturday I went up to Fort Sanders, where I had 
been urged to go and hold a service during the stay 
of the Railroad Commissioners. I held a service on 
Sunday morning, and immediately after at head- 
quarters held a baptismal service and christened the 
infant daughter of General J. H. Potter, Mrs. Blair 
(wife of Democratic nominee for Vice President) 
and General W. T. Sherman standing as sponsors. 
I was detained at Sanders until Wednesday morn- 
ing. While there a number of persons spoke to me 
upon the subject, wishing that something could be 
done for Laramie. I went to the town and visited 
people there, and found that services are very much 
desired and that they want a church. There is no 
service of any kind there at present, though I learn 
since my return here that a new Methodist preach- 
er who has been sent here intends to hold ser- 
vices there on Sunday evenings. The people there 
who are Churchmen and those well disposed toward 
the Church look to me to do something there, as I 
am the only clergyman of the Church within reach. 
I told them I would do what I could. So I made an 
appointment for next Sunday evening. But my 
hands are full here now, for I today started my par- 
ish school, on faith — ^but more of this hereafter. 
Some pious ladies of different denominations have 
started a union Sunday School, which are my detes- 

—92— 



tation, from experience, at Laramie, and they are 
trying to get the idea started that they must have a 
Union Church also. One earnest Churchwoman was 
engaged in it, as she thought from force of circum- 
stances. I told her the way in which I believed the 
matter would end, and then she determined to take 
steps in the right direction and to gradually with- 
draw from the union. She will start a little Sunday 
School for the Church. I sent her since my return 
a lot of catechisms and Sunday School papers, and 
subscribed for 20 copies of The Young Christian 
Soldier to be sent to her. In order to take time by 
the forelock and get the start of any denomination 
there, I engaged this lady to do what she could in 
the matter of subscriptions at Laramie, and also 
Mrs. Bent at the Commissioners' house at the Fort 
to do what she could at Sanders, and accordingly 
sent them subscription lists. Dr. Durant is very 
much interested in Laramie. It is his town as this 
is General Dodge's, and those who know him believe 
that he will do something handsome for the Church. 
He is to be out shortly and we shall know. 

Laramie is going to amount to much more than we 
suspected when we were there in May last. The 
railroad company has built a large, fine hotel there 
and large shops are nearly completed and a round- 
house for 21 engines. I believe there is a permanent 
papulation and it will doubtless be a place of resort. 
It is far more attractive than Cheyenne. 

In was suggested in conversation with people at 
Fort Sanders that if an active young man could be 
found who would make this venture for Christ and 
His Church, that he could receive the appointment 
as chaplain for the Fort and by devoting half the 
day to Laramie he would be able to build up the 
Church there. It is right on the railroad, there are 

—93— 



cultivated people there, and, in my estimation, there 
is no sacrifice in it except good manly blows and 
hard work for God and His kingdom among men. 
But for mercy sake, for the sake of the Church, let 
it be a young man, and a man with some snap, and 
not an old fossil in the shape of a Chaplain who like 
one I might name seems to think of nothing but ex- 
cursions "to have a good time'' and is now going on 
another leave of 30 or 40 days for the second time 
since early last spring, besides other shorter ones. 

If necessary, could you aid us any in building a 
church at Laramie? and w^ill you not try to get 
some man to come there ? They have asked me for 
Prayer Books. I have none to spare here. If you 
have any on hand to spare, will you be kind enough 
to send them immediately by express, so that, if pos- 
sible, they may reach me in time for next Sunday? 

Now as to Convocation : I am very sorry indeed 
that it is utterly out of my power to go. There are 
two obstacles. First, it is on Friday, so late in the 
week that I cannot get back here for Sunday, and I 
must not be away again if I can help it without leav- 
ing someone else in my place which I did last Sun- 
day week. The church was almost empty. I could not 
have him even, in this case, for he is off tomorrow 
on his leave. And I cannot close the church. The 
second obstacle is the expense, counting meals, some- 
thing like $50 there and back. I want to see my 
mother this Fall if I can, and I cannot stand both 
expenses. It would have been a very great gratifica- 
tion to me to be at the consecration of the church, 
and especially at the organization of the Convoca- 
tion. You do me too great an honor in appointing 
me to preach the sermon, since I am the latest arrival 
in the jurisdiction, and I appreciate it very highly. I 
am sorry from the circumstances named that I must 

—94— 



decline. Please accept my sincere thanks for your 
kind honor. I shall try to send you a report, which 
I will direct to you at Golden City. 

I hope Mr. Spencer has arrived safely. He start- 
ed the day I returned. 

As it turned out, I had hut two days of quiet rest 
in the hills. On Friday evening I returned to Fort 
Sanders and Laramie to take the cars in the morning 
for home. I wanted to see the lady in Laramie, Mrs. 
Ivinson, as I had delegated her to see if a young 
Baptist student for the ministry really intended to 
remain and open a school which he was talking of 
doing, and if not to make arrangements for opening 
a Parish School at once, by sending my own teacher 
there for the present until I could get another out. 
He had concluded to do so — ^^but intends to teach 
only until Christmas. I intend then (D. V.) to open 
a Parish School, and I shall be much obliged if you 
will put it on your memorandum to secure a good 
teacher when you go East. Vocal music I consider 
indispensable in such an one, and if she knows an 
instrument, so much the better. It is thought 40 or 
50 children can be secured there. I am very sorry I 
was a few days too late in going up there. We 
ought to have a Missionary on this railroad to take 
advantage of these openings, to be a watchman for 
the future interests of the Church. We ought now 
to have a man to hold services at Benton, and Raw- 
lin's Springs, and at Green River. The latter place 
alone will probably not amount to anything after 
next Winter, and yet it may. And then beyond and 
off the railroad is South Pass City, at the Sweet- 
water gold mines, which needs looking after. But 
where are the men? It makes one's heart sick to 
contemplate the destitution, the want of men to 
e^ter into these fair fields ripe for the harvest ! The 

—95— 



so-called "good pioneers," the Methodists, etc., are 
not the pioneers in this far West. The population is 
too advanced, too intelligent for them. They want 
the Church; although the want may not be clearly 
defined in their own minds. It is a kind of uncon- 
scious prophecy like ''the whole creation groaning 
and travailling together in pain." But to come back, 
I organized my Parish School this morning with 7 
scholars, and the promise of a good many others. 
I shall teach an hour or two per day, and take charge 
of the religious instruction. I engaged Miss Farley, 
the teacher, simply because she was about to open a 
school again, and I did not wish to cut oil her 
means of support, as I believed I should, should I 
open my school. She is not the person I want. She 
neither sings nor plays, and she is not so cultivated 
a person as I should like. Besides, she has just re- 
cently become a member of our Church, and knows 
but little about it. She has not got into the spirit of 
it. She may improve. 

But I must bring my long letter to a close. I 
hope it has not wearied you. It is a report of pres- 
ent operations. 

Again expressing my great regret that I cannot be 
with you and the brethren, I am, my dear Bishop, 
Yours in Christ and His Church, 
JosKPH W. Cook. 

LETTER TO BISHOP RANDALL. 

Cheyenne, Wyoming Terr., Sept. i6th, 1868. 
To Rt. Rev. George M. Randall, D. D., Miss. Bp. 
Colorado, Wyoming and New Mexico. 
My Dear Bishop : — I herewith send you a report 
of my work within your jurisdiction up to time of 
this present writing. I arrived in Cheyenne on the 
evening of the 14th January, 1868, having been 

-9(^ 



commended by Bishop Clarkson, through whom I 
was sent out here, to C. D. Sherman, Esq., S. B. 
Reed, Esq., J. D. Woolley, Esq., and Dr. C. D. 
Alden, Surgeon at Fort Russell, gentlemen who had 
interested themselves in the establishment of the 
Church here, who had taken some steps to that ef- 
fect and had communicated with Bishop Clarkson 
with reference to it and the sending out of a clergy- 
man. Bishop Clarkson went upon the supposition 
that so long as this was a part of Dakota it was in 
his jurisdiction. You yourself, Rt. Rev. Sir, rea- 
soned otherwise, and Bishop Clarkson transferred 
me and his engagements here to you and your juris- 
diction. 

The gentlemen were able to secure a comfortable 
building erected for a public school, which we could 
occupy for our services half the day on Sundays. 
On 19th January we held our first service, which 
was well attended and the responses and singing 
good. Many persons here were found to be inter- 
ested and it was thought wise to effect an organiza- 
tion at once and take measures to erect a church 
building. Accordingly a meeting of those interested 
was called at Kountze Bros. & Co.'s Bank on the 
27th January, when about twenty gentlemen assem- 
bled, discussed the matter and elected a Vestry of 
seven and started a subscription for the church and 
the first quarter of the Rector's salary. The Vestry 
was composed of the following gentlemen: S. B. 
Reed, General Superintendent of Construction, U. 
P. R. R. ; Colonel E. B. Carling, A. Q. M., U. S. A. ; 
C. H. Alden, M. D., Post Surgeon, Fort Russell; 
C. D. Sherman, Esq., Judge G. W. Ford, J. D. 
Woolley, Esq., and T. J. Street, Esq. S. B. Reed, 
Esq., and Colonel Carling were chosen Wardens. 
Upon the organization of the Vestry it was deter- 



-97- 



mined to name the Church St. Mark's, in considera- 
tion of the fact that St. Mark's Church, Philadel- 
phia, Pa., had given one thousand dollars to aid in 
the erection of a church here. Upon our transfer 
to the jurisdiction, you, Rt. Rev. Sir, assuming to 
fulfill the engagement of supplying that amount of 
aid to the work here. The Vestry elected the Rev. 
Joseph W. Cook, Rector, and voted him a salary for 
the present of twelve hundred dollars ($1,200) to 
be paid quarterly in advance. The subscription was 
pushed until it amounted to over three thousand dol- 
lars ($3,000) and considerable was paid into the 
Secretary and Treasurer of the Vestry, C. D. Sher- 
man, Esq. Plans for a church building were pre- 
sented and discussed and finally one by Dr. Alden 
and the Rector was decided upon. The lumber was 
purchased by Colonel Carling in Chicago, and, 
through the kind interposition of Mr. Taylor of that 
city, was shipped free of charge over the Chicago 
& N. W. R. R. The same favor was granted us by 
the U. P. R. R. The erection of the building was 
commenced about the 15th July and was ready for 
consecration the 23rd of August. I offer below an 
account of the services on that interesting occasion, 
and a description of the building which I clip from 
the American Churchman. Our congregations have 
generally been very good — much better in the 
church than when we worshipped in the school 
house. About the first of March I organized a Mite 
Society, which has met with very great favor and 
success. They have devoted a part of their earn- 
ings to the purchase of an instrument of music, and 
the remainder toward uniformly cushioning the 
pews of the church throughout, so that we may pre- 
sent to strangers, occasional worshippers, and the 



poor, the very same comforts that the more wealthy 
in this world's goods may enjoy. 

A Strawberry Festival was held in June, the pro- 
ceeds of which were devoted to an organ. I have 
discouraged the holding of festivals and fairs for 
the raising of money for religious purposes, believ- 
ing the principle false and pernicious. Unfortun- 
ately it has become so common a means of raising 
money that it is sometimes hard to restrain it. 

Since my arrival here I have officiated on seventy- 
four (74) occasions, and have performed the fol- 
lowing official acts : 

Baptisms (adults) 3 

Baptisms (infants) 5 

Presented for confirmation, May 24th — 

Males 2 

Females i 

Presented for confirmation, Aug. 23rd — 

Males I 

Females 4 

8 

Marriages 4 

Burials 17 

Communicants, 20, who have connected them- 
selves with the Church here. There are others who 
have not yet reported themselves. 

In the Sunday School there are about seventy-five 
scholars, more or less regular in attendance. Owing 
to the uncertain stay of people in the community, I 
have heretofore been una'ble to depend upon teach- 
ers and so have superintended the Sunday School 
myself, taught them altogether orally, acted as chor- 
ister and librarian. Owing to new duties recently 
assumed I have been obliged to ask for teachers. 
Last Sunday three offered themselves and were put 



in charge of the older girls, I myself still teaching 
the boys — and the Sunday previous I was enabled to 
separate the infant class and put it in charge of a 
competent teacher. There is a grand opening for a 
parish school here and I tried to fill it. I opened 
such a school on 7th Septem'ber, but owing to the 
utter incompetency of the teacher was obliged to 
close it at the end of the week, as I was unable my- 
self to take hold of it so as to devote my whole time 
to it. I am in hopes soon to 'be able to secure a 
proper teacher and open it under better auspices. 

There has been collected here for building and 
other purposes somewhere in the neighborhood of 
$3,800. In addition to this, we have received from 
yourself, Rt. Rev. Sir, $1,000; from Church of St. 
Innocence, W. Point, N. Y., $75 ; miscellaneous, 
$75 ; from Calvary Church, Germantown, Pa., $6y.'/c^ 
(for special purposes, which I have devoted to the 
chancel furniture; from Bishop Clarkson (for 
traveling purposes of Missionary), $100; from 
Board of Domestic Missions, two quarters' salary of 
Missionary, $300; from Bishop Randall, one quar- 
ter's salary of Missionary, $150; total, $5,509.75. 

$3,800.00 

1 ,000.00 

75.00 

17.00 

67.75 
100.00 
300.00 
150.00 



$5,509.75 
I have spent all my time at this post except one 
Sunday when I was providentially detained in the 
Black Hills, and one Sunday (August 30th), which 



— 100 — 



I spent at Fort Sanders, Rev. E. B. Tuttle supply- 
ing my place in Cheyenne. 

When at Fort Sanders and Laramie City I was 
applied to by the citizens of those places to do 
something for Laramie City. I have started a sub- 
scription for a church building. A little Sunday 
School has been organized ; and last Sunday evening 
I went up the railroad after my service here and 
held a service in a building formerly used as a 
dance hall. To my great surprise it was crowded 
and many were unable to gain admittance and num- 
bers stood through the whole service. Copies of 
the Mission Service were distributed and the peo- 
ple joined heartily in the service and were as quiet, 
attentive a congregation as I ever saw. I expect to 
hold services regularly there on Sunday evenings 
until relieved 'by a Missionary for that point and 
the railroad, whom I hope will soon be secured. 

Many other points of interest present themselves, 
my Dear Bishop, but I have already probably ex- 
ceeded the bounds of the report which you intended. 

For the interest of the Church I hope and pray 
the House of Bishops may be guided to still fur- 
ther divide these immense missionary jurisdictions, 
so that the golden opportunities for planting the 
Church may not be lost. 

May God the Holy Ghost be with you, my Dear 
Bishop, and the brethren in your deliberations for 
the interests of the Saviour's Kingdom. I am very 
sorry I cannot be with you. As ever. 

Yours in Christ and His S. Church, 

Jose:ph W. Cook. 
li:tti:r to bishop randai^l. 
Ft. Sande:rs, Wyo. Terr., Oct. 5th, 1868. 

My Dt:AR Bishop : — Owing to the obstinacy of a 
wretched stage driver, who refused to do his duty 

— lOI — 



until he got ready, I was delayed on the road in 
Iowa for five hours on Friday and consequently 
failed to make connection at Omaha that evening, 
and, as a further consequence, I did not reach Chey- 
enne to fulfill my appointment. I regret it very 
much, but was obliged to smother my wrath and 
accept the situation. I traveled all day Sunday and 
was thus prevented from disappointing the people at 
Laramie. I held services last night at the hotel and 
preached to a very large congregation, who, as here- 
tofore, joined heartily in the service and listened 
with the strictest attention to me. A Vestry meet- 
ing is appointed for tonight and I stay over to at- 
tend it. I will keep this letter open and if anything 
of importance occurs I will inform you. 

I am again doomed to disappointment with refer- 
ence to a teacher for my school. I heard from the 
Clergy in Omaha the most flattering accounts of 
Miss Earle of Detroit, and was exceedingly anxious 
to secure her. I think she herself would have come, 
but her mother could not think of her coming fur- 
ther west than Omaha, especially as she would be 
entirely among strangers. Now that you are in the 
East, would you do me the favor to secure me one 
as soon as possible ? I want a good woman, not too 
young, able to teach all ordinary branches and 
French and music. I v/ant her to be able to teach 
vocal music, considering it an indispensable thing 
in a good parish school, and if she be able to teach 
instrumental music it will be so much more to her 
advantage in the way of increasing her income. If 
you think it best to offer a definite salary, please do 
so. Perhaps $400 per annum over and above ex- 
penses would be fair, and her expenses out here. 
Perhaps an advertisement in one or two of the 



102- 



church papers East would bring out someone. 
Please do as you think best about that. 

The young man who has been teaching in Lar- 
amie, I hear, is likely to give up soon. If he does, 
Mr. Batcheldr is thinking seriously of taking hold 
of the school, which I hope he may do, since it will 
be of advantage to him in brushing up his English 
and give him some time for study. 

May the Holy Spirit be with you and the rest of 
the members of the great Council of the Church and 
direct your legislation to the glory of God and the 
furtherance of tlie Church of Christ ! 

With sincere regards, 

Yours in Christ and His S. Church, 

Joseph W. Cook. 

P. S. — Nothing of importance occurred at the 
Vestry meeting. J. W. C. 

LE:TTKR to bishop RANDALL. 

Earamik City, Wyo., Oct. 26th, 1868. 
My Dear Bishop: — Yours of the 14th and 19th 
inst. have come to hand and the latter one has ren- 
dered me inexpressible satisfaction and relief. I 
promise myself that I now begin to see my visions 
take shape, and I shall soon have my school a pleas- 
ing fact. I am very much obliged to you for attend- 
ing to this matter for me. It is an enterprise en- 
tirely my own and for which I make myself per- 
sonally responsible. I am less able to sustain it now 
than I was when I first resolved upon it, for I then 
counted upon a quarterly stipend from you ; but as 
you have sent me only the first quarter's I con- 
clude you have withdrawn it, although you have 
never said so. I have not the slightest doubt but 
that when the school is started it will be self-sup- 
porting. But it will involve considerable expense 

—103— 



to start it. I must provide desks, and chairs, and 
stove, fuel, and the expense of my teacher out here, 
etc. I imagine I shall have to borrow a couple of 
hundred dollars. 

I hope that you may be able to send me an associ- 
ate at the same time. I want very much to go over 
this road to look out for the interests of the Church 
and especially at Gilmer near Bear River, and Ft. 
Bridger. But I cannot do so profitably until there is 
some one to leave behind for a Sunday. 

I had an excellent and ver}- respectable congrega- 
tion here last night. A week ago last night the train 
was very much delayed and we arrived too late to 
hold service. This seemed providential,, for the 
Vigilantes started out about service time to clear the 
town of the worst of the rogues and the whole town 
was in excitement. They hung three men that night, 
and next morning at nine o'clock in the broad day- 
light they hung another. Two innocent men were 
shot in the melee and have since died, and another is 
wounded in the arm. It was a fearful night — a per- 
fect reign of terror. But it will tend to quiet the 
place. It was exceedingly dangerous before with 
garroting, robbing and shooting. 

The school house here has not yet been built, it 
being impossible to get the lumber through from 
Omaha, nearly all the rolling stock of the railroad 
being employed in pushing on construction materials 
in order to hurry on the road to Salt Lake. The 
school teacher here does not am_ount to much. He is 
a candidate for the Congregationalist ministry. He 
was one of the Vigilantes and now spends a great 
deal of his time in a billiard hall owned and con- 
ducted by the captain of the band. 

Mr. Batchelor now has a more favorable situation 
in the charge of the water works of the railroad 



-104- 



upon two or three divisions, and promises himself 
after he gets things fixed up that he will have con- 
siderable time to study. I have been appointed Su- 
perintendent of Public Schools and expect to set off 
Laramie as a district shortly and the ist of January 
open a public school. Now if I can get some good 
young churchman out here to take it, it would be of 
advantage to our cause. 

I have announced a sociable to be organized on 
Wednesday evening of this week at Mr. Ivinson's. 
I hope it will accomplish something towards forming 
society and also towards procuring things necessary 
to the Church. 

Our congregations in Cheyenne are excellent. We 
have put up two large coal stoves instead of digging 
the cellar and heating from below, since the gentle- 
men thought we were not able to accomplish that 
this season. It does not disfigure the church a? I 
feared. My church furniture progresses slowly. 
Your throne is in its place and is a beautiful piece of 
work. It is a gift from the man who is making the 
rest of the furniture. Mr. Woolley by the aid of 
friends in Chicago procured all the lumber, doors^ 
sash, glass, paint, and all material necessary to build 
the Rectory of St. Mark's, and $500 towards build- 
ing it, and its transfer over the N. W. R. R. at half 
price. We hope to get it free over our railroad. It 
is probably detained from the same cause as the ma- 
terials for the school house here. 

I have been counting very much on a visit from 
Bishop Tuttle, and now he writes me he thinks he 
must fail me for fear of snow in the mountains. I 
am very sorry. So it goes. The clergy pass and 
repass me and neither I nor the people get any bene- 
fit of their even having been in the country. 



—105- 



I am thankful the convention has been so quiet 
and hope it may continue so to the end. I will write 
Miss Peters and enclose to you and beg you to do 
me the favor to forward as I do not know the ad- 
dress of herself or Rector. 

May God bless and keep you, my dear Bishop. 
Yours in Christ and His Church, 

Joseph W. Cook. 

The Methodist preacher has arrived in Cheyenne 
and is said to be a very tame affair. J. W. C. 

LKTTKR TO BISHOP RANDALL. 

Laramie, Wyo., Evening, Oct. 26th, 1868. 

My Dear Bishop : — Can you not get a chance 
for Mr. Batchelor at Cheshire Academy or some 
such institution where he can make direct prepara- 
tion for this S. work? He is of such an age that 
he ought, it seems to me, to devote all his time and 
attention to it. He will make but slow progress here 
at best. He is anxious to give up all for that pur- 
pose. He is not prepared now to become distinctly 
a candidate for S. Orders unless you are ready to 
give him a large dispensation. I should like to see 
him have the opportunity of good preparation. We 
hope to have a meeting of vestry this evening. They 
are so slow. But if I or an associate could stay on 
the ground a while I think it would go along faster. 

I wish someone would set us up in the matter of a 
school house in Cheyenne. 

As ever, yours very sincerely. 

Joseph W. Cook. 

letter to bishop RANDALL. 

Cheyenne, Wyo., Nov. 27th, 1868. 
My Dear Bishop: — Yours of the 2nd and 13th 
inst. came duly to hand and their contents were a 

—106— 



source of great pleasure to me. Mr. Cornell did not 
arrive until last night. He was so long in coming, 
after the time named, that I began to think he had 
receded from his determination. I knew Mr. C. in 
the General Seminary and so needed no introduction. 
I am very glad indeed he has come, and I hope and 
pray that his work in this territory may he blessed. 
From your response to my proposition for an asso- 
ciate mission, the headquarters to be located here, I 
thought all along that you intended to comply and 
made my arrangements accordingly. Mr. Cornell 
informs me that no such idea was presented to him, 
and he has received instructions to establish him- 
self in Laramie. I trust that it will turn out all 
right, although I am considerably disappointed. 
There is a great deal to be done at Laramie if my 
plans are carried out and perhaps it can better be 
accomplished by a man resident there than other- 
wise. In the first place, services and Sunday School 
in the town itself must be maintained and active 
visiting undertaken, which it seems to me may, with 
God's blessing, effectually break up the union there 
which was entered upon some time before I began 
services. I think with judicious handling the whole 
element may be harmonized. Then there ought to 
be regular services at the Post (Fort Sanders). 
There are more communicants there than at Lar- 
amie. Several officers and others have spoken to me 
a number of times about the matter, and have said 
that if they could have an active young man there 
they should be very glad to have him as Chaplain, 
but they were fearful of having one appointed at 
random lest they should suffer the same infliction 
as those at Fort Russell and Fort Steele, and in fact 
the majority of instances in the army. Now, if you 
will allow the suggestion, since you have secured a 



107- 



young man whom I think will be acceptable, I have 
no doubt you can secure his appointment by the Sec- 
retary of War (General Scofield) to the position of 
Chaplain at Fort Sanders with the understanding 
that he is to be allowed to carry on work at Laramie. 
Thus he would be in a position of advantage so far 
as work is concerned there, and he would at once be 
relieved of the necessity of receiving the Missionary 
Stipend, and you would have so much to apply to 
the support of another missionary at some other 
point. That was Bishop Clarkson's plan with ref- 
erence tO' me, had not Mr. Tuttle interfered. He 
would have quarters free, and about $i,8oo or 
$2,000. I have been invited to begin an enterprise 
at Carbon, about one hundred and thirty miles west 
of this. A coal company is operating there, of which 
Dr. Durant and W. Snyder, general superintendent 
of Pacific railroad, and other railroad men are part- 
ners. There are about three hundred men there 
now, mostly Protestant, and before a great while 
there will be a very large force there. There are 
some families there. A church has been spoken of 
by the company and I am informed that most of 
them are nominally churchmen and would throw their 
influence that way. By the establishment of Mr. C. at 
Laramie my plans with reference to work "up the 
road" are completely broken up. I shall myself go up 
to Carbon as soon as I can and look after matters 
there. The only thing now which prevents my go- 
ing at once is the lack of a pass. Mr. Evans has 
gone from Laramie and I cannot now get one. I 
have thought that if when you are in New York you 
would take the trouble to see Dr. Durant you could 
secure a yearly one to be used by Mr. Cornell and 
myself, by which we might be allowed to travel on 
our duty through the whole length of this territory 

— iioa— 



and thus take hold of the beginning of things for the 
Church. If I mistake not, Sir. Ames, the President 
of the Union Pacific railroad, resides in Boston, and 
if so you could secure the same thing at once there. 
If agreeable, I hope you will act upon it. I think 
it will be a good stroke for missions. 

Rev. Mr. Foote of Salt Lake, in a recent letter to 
me, says : ''At Fort Bridger there are several com- 
municants and quite an interest in the Church. Mrs. 
Colonel Morrow, Mrs. Colonel Mizner and Mrs. 
Major Belcher at the Post are all intelligent, well 
educated churchwom.en. Miss Foote, residing with 
Judge Carter, is also a communicant and both of 
Judge C.'s daughters (fine yound ladies) were edu- 
cated at St. Agnes Hall in Indiana, and wish to be 
confirmed. As the Post is now in Wyoming and so 
removed from Bishop Tuttle's jurisdiction, I think 
Bishop R. ought to know of this and look after it. 
Judge Carter will be willing to put up a little chapel 
and do well towards the support of a clergyman. 
There is a very good man there now as Chaplain, 
Mr. Leavit, a Presbyterian minister, who uses the 
''Missionary Service'' of our Church in all his ser- 
vices. He is a brother of the editor of our Church 
Review. 

In addition to this, I am told, there is an important 
town springing up at the nearest point to Fort 
Bridger, on the railroad, which is ten or fifteen miles 
off. Had I a pass I would go out and look at it and 
secure lots there. I am anxiously waiting Miss 
Peters, who writes me she will be here December 
1st. Dr. White has ceased to be one of the U. S. 
Railroad Commissioners. I think he will still take 
an interest in Laramie enough so as to assist you in 
doing something for Laramie. He has gone East. 
His residence is Fair Haven, near New Haven. 

— 109 — 



Mrs. White gave me a lot for the church in Lar- 
amie. When you see him, would it not be well to 
get some instrument of transfer to that effect? I 
secured a corner lot, 132x132 feet, in an eligible posi- 
tion for church purposes. The gentlemen who have 
saw mills in that vicinity have subscribed to the 
amount of from 2,000 to 6,000 feet of lumber apiece 
and I think it will be sufficient to furnish all the 
timbers for rafters, joists, etc. They talk there of 
building of stone, of which there is an abundance 
of beautiful building stone within a short distance, 
easily worked and accessible. It is reddish-gray 
sandstone. All the rolling stock of the railroad has 
been in use to push on the construction and so our 
lumber for rectory has been lying at Omaha for six 
weeks or more. I have a letter now from Mr. Sny- 
der, who says it will be along in a few days. He 
insists upon charging us half tariff rates. This be- 
ing the case, I have my doubts about our being able 
to get up the building this winter. We have but 
five hundred dollars ($500) and that will nearly be 
eaten up by the time we get the materials upon 
the ground. I am very much obliged to you for 
providing for the expenses of the teacher out. If 
you are prospered in getting up your training school 
perhaps you will be able to provide for Mr. Batch- 
elor there. Being superintendent of public schools 
in this county, I have organized a district in Lar- 
amie, and hope to have the public school start the 
first of the year. It may be I can put him in there. 
I have just had a letter from Mrs. Fallon, 216 W. 
Ritten House Square, Philadelphia, of St. Mark's 
Church, telling me that I can look for a bell for 
Cheyenne by Easter as a kind of baptismal present. 
I wish, if agreeable, you would call on the Fallons 
when you are in Philadelphia. Mr. A. G. Lathrop 

— no — . 



has presented us with the designs for the other large 
window, and I have devoted a week's hard labor, 
day and night, to putting them on. It is very beau- 
tiful, cost forty-one dollars. There are many other 
little items which I should like to mention, but I 
must bring my long, rambling letter to a close. 

God bless and prosper you, my dear Bishop. Let 
me hear from you soon. As ever, yours in Christ 
and His S. Church, Joskph W. Cook. 

l'kTTKR to bishop RANDALL. 

Cheyenne, Wyo., Dec. loth, 1868. 
My Dear Bishop : — 

I have not yet received an answer to my last — in 
fact (there has not been more than time by the 
promptest response and mail. However, I feel in 
the humor and miood of writing you although not in 
exuberant spirits. Winter has come on ; hopes in 
the reform of erring ones have been sadly dashed ; 
.plans for work broken up, "Through much tribula- 
tion we enter into the kingdom of Heaven." 

Bishop Turtle passed through here according to 
appointment on the ist inst., and brought Miss 
Peters. I told her I thought her a very brave lit- 
tle woman to come so far to go among entire 
strangers. Fortunately she is of a very cheerful, 
hopeful disposition. I was obliged in great part 
to furnish a room for her which I had procured of 
the gentleman who teaches the public school. On 
the seventh inst. we opened school with nineteen 
scholars, and today we had twenty-five. Several 
more expect to come after New Year's. I have 
been much pleased with the manner in which Miss 
Peters has started off. She evidently understands 
what she is about, and she seems delighted with her 
school. The children seem deligihted with her. She 

— Ill — 



is very decided and firm, but at the same time kind 
and affectionate, elements of success in a good 
teacher. The school would be self-supporting from 
the start were it not for the rent of the building, 
$20 per month. As yet I have not asked a person 
for a dollar for the school and hope I may not be 
under the necessity of doing it. I think, however, 
it will pay its way. It may not pay the original ex- 
pense of furniture. 




St. Mark's, Cheyenne, during the rectorship of the Rev. Francis W. 
Hiliiard (1874-1876). 

"The child has come to the birth, but there is not 
strength to bring forth." In other words the ma- 
terials for our Rectory have reached us safely and 
for want of funds we have been obliged to store the 
lumber at Col. Carling's depot and wait for future 
developments. Both the N. W. R. R. Co. and the 
U. Pacific refused to do more for us than to send 
it for less than half tariff rates. This swallowed up 
nearly all our ready funds. We have between one 
and two hundred Dollars in Bank. How or when 

— 112 — 



the problem of its erection shall be worked out I do 
t ot know. My anticipations with reference to it are 
not very encouraging. The vestry have nothing to 
do with the matter and Mr. Woolley, who has been 
the means of getting the matter thus far thinks 
best they should not. He thinks there will be less 
trouble about it. Besides he wishes me to build it 
to suit myself. In the mean time I am perfectly 

. I have not as yet succeeded in getting 

a gasoline stove for my vestry room and I cannot 
have an ordinary stove there. I am staying with 
Mr. Sherman at the Bank. I am comfortable as to 
ted and place to stay, but subject to constant inter- 
ruptions and unable to count upon an hour's quiet. 
Of cO'Urse I can accomplish nothing in way of stud}' 
or writing. I can't afford to take a room elsewhere. 
It it were not that I have already spent all my ready 
money, and more too, in this school, I would take 
some of the Rectory lumber and put up a room at 
the end of the Church communicating with the 
Vestry room. Then I could have a room where I 
could have an ordinary fire. Mr. Cornell has been 
back from Laramie a couple of days and has just 
returned. He read to me his last letter to you be- 
fore sending it, I was, I confess to you, very much 
annoyed at several expressions in it, and he 
scratched out some of them. Still the tenor of his 
letter could not be mistaken by you, although he 
protested he was writing for information and ad- 
vice. I assured him what your answer would be, 
for there could be but one to it. It was unmistak- 
able that he was only willing to work in an inde- 
pendent way, and if so, you were not the one to 
reject his services, because he would not come into 
other plans for work. I have found him very pig- 
headed. Although I assured him that in such an 

—113— 



associate mission as I proposed there was no such 
thing as subordination or assistantship, but a perfect 
equality and equitable and mutual arrangement and 
agreement upon work, he persisted in speaking to 
others of it as if I was to be a little pope, and he 
an assistant to be ordered about at my will, etc. i 
was obliged to request him at last as a special favor 
that he should not so represent it as it was far 
from my thoughts and plans. I designed that he 
should stay there one week in charge of the church 
and school, rest, study, write, while I should spend 
Sunday and a couple of days at Laramie and Fort 
Sanders, then go up the railroad to other points, 
return to Cheyenne on Saturday and then he should 
take a week's trip up the railroad and I should take 
the work at Cheyenne. My plan may not be the 
best or most practicable. I took Mr. C. to Laramie 
and Fort Sanders and introduced him and gave 
the whole work into his hands. The people very 
kindly insisted that I should not give up my con- 
nection with the work there. But as Mr. C. was 
unwilling to come into my arrangement except as 
a kind of trial of it, in which he had no heart or 
interest, there was no other course open. It needs 
a man to be thoroughly persuaded of the wisdom of 
the course upon which he enters and to work 
heartily to work successfully. I did not care to 
begin a course in which at any time I might be left 
alone, and plans entirely destroyed after entered 
upon. 

I have only space to write myself, my dear 
Bishop. 

Yours faithfully in Christ and His S. Church, 

Joseph W. Cook. 

1869, New Year's Day. Have omitted writing 
in my journal for a long time, having scarcely a 

—114— 



moment of time to spare for it, and being so tossed 
about from one lodging to another that it has been 
almost impossible. What has been accomplished 
is sketched in my letters to Bishop Randall. At 
last I have got a little stove in my Vestry room and 
here I live and am quite comfortable, being able to 
command some quiet time now for writing. At 
Mr. Sherman's request stayed last night at the 
bank, Mr. Sherman being absent at the Post to 
a party. Spent this afternoon in writing some 
letters, etc. After dinner called upon Miss Peters, 
the teacher of the Parish School, which is now in 
a flourishing condition with thirty-eight scholars. 
P'ound her quite blue thinking of the pleasant time 
they were probably having in New York City, at 
home. Called on Mrs. Morrow, Mrs. Irwin and 
daughter, Mrs. Street, George Bronson (a sick 
man), Mr. Kent (who made me a present of a 
Meershaum pipe), and on Mr. and Mrs. Gosline 
and Mr. and Mrs. Davis. Took tea with the latter 
families and sat awhile with them, Mr. Loman and 
Mr. East joining our company. At request of Mr. 
Sherman, spent the night at the Bank. Talked 
confidentially with me of many of his private af- 
fairs. The day has been fine. There was a slight 
fall of snow last night, just enough to make the 
shroud of the old year and the bridal robe of the 
new. 

January 2d. Beautiful and mild day, but fearful 
wind arose and the dust was horrible. Wrote 
note to Mrs. Carling thanking her for her labors 
in the late choir, (it went to pieces last week and 
Miss Peters now leads) and to wish her a happy 
New Year. Prepared for Sunday. Expected Mr. 
Woolley to send for me to go to the Post, but sup- 



115- 



posed it was too windy. Spent afternoon and even- 
ing here in Vestry room. 

January 3d. Second Sunday after Christmas. 
Wind and dust more horrible than ever. Miss 
Peters came over, and was only lady at service. 
Eight or ten people out, I did not expect any. 
Church perfectly disgusting with dust. Mr. Lath- 
rop was here and stopped after service a few mo- 
ments. Took Miss Peters to the Rollins house. 
Did not expect children to Sunday School, but 
about a dozen got here. In evening started my 
proposed conversations on Church history. Nine 
persons present. ]\Ir. Webster and Mr. Williams 
spent the remainder of the evening with me talk- 
mg over plans for the future of the ''Star." My 
friend Webster becomes, tomorrow, local editor 
of the same and I am much rejoiced. Mr. Williams 
left me a check for _ $20.00, a free will offering. 
Mr. Webster had handed me a present of $25.00 
a few days ago and also a gold pen. Neither of 
them has much of this world's goods and I did 
not like to receive it, but they insisted and I yielded 
May God reward them. We had a very pleasant 
evening together. I cut my cake, a present from 
;the ladies who held a Fair for the Church, and 1 
made some lemonade. 

January 4th. Answered some letters from Thos. 
Groom, Esq., of Boston, ]\Iass., with reference 
to his son John whom I found sick here, and waited 
upon until he was able to travel. Got him off for 
home on Wednesday last. A brother-in-law of 
Rev. C. L. Hutchins of Lowell, Mass., a friend in 
General Sem. W^rote note to Rev. John Cornell 
of Laramie with reference to an exchange next 
Sunday. Spent rest of morning in reading. Suf- 
fering from bad headache. Taught in Parish 

—11^- 



School in afternoon. Called upon Mrs. Rogers, did 
not find her in. Went to see George Bronson, a 
sick man whom I have visited a number of times. 
P'ound him evidently dying. Exhorted him to pre- 
pare for the worst. Quite flighty, but rational 
when spoken to. Doctor came in and intimated 
his serious situation and told him if he had any 
preparations to make he had best talk with me. 
Asked me to go after tea for that purpose, which 
I did. It was not satisfactory, as it could not be 
under the circumstances. Exhorted, read and 
prayed with him. ''Hoped he would go to Heav- 
en." But alas he could not rise to the importance 
of preparing for it. Spoke to him of S. Baptism, 
but alas his mind was wandering and in a little 
while his voice failed him. The doctor came in 
and in a few minutes the poor fellow died. Sad! 
Sad! and, oh, how many similar cases are con- 
stantly occurring of men rushing to the bar of God 
without preparation to meet their Judge! Spent 
remainder of evening discussing divinity and mor- 
als with Doctors Heimberger , Moore and Mr. 
Johnson. 

April 25th, St. Mark's Day, and fourth Sunday 
after Easter. Very pleasant day and large con- 
gregation in the morning. Preached sermon on 
St. Mark and unity in worshipping God, based 
upon fact attributed to St. Mark that he composed 
a Liturgy, and that that was intended to unite 
all worshippers in their expressions of worship. 
Applying it to this congregation and urging unity 
both in posture and in joining in the prayers and 
praises. Service in evening, talked on tradition 
and the Apocryphal gospels as sources of heresy. 
Mr. Jeffries walked home with Miss Peters, and 
Webster with Julia. I followed in a few minutes. 

—117— 



Last Sunday dear, dear Webster is to spend with 
us. About to go to an uncle at Stockton, Califor- 
riia. A great grief for us all. We have become 
so devotedly attached to each other that it seems as 
though we ought not to be separated. Besides we 
seem so well adapted to each other. What I should 
have done without him in the three dismal months 
past, I do not know. Thank God for him ! He has 
been sleeping with me at the Vestry for two months 
past and I shall miss him sorely. Tonight is our 
last. Mr. Williams dined with us today. 

April 26th. Wrote three or four business let- 
ters. Called at Mrs. Morrow's and got her per- 
mission to use some of the Mite Society money to 
pay the R. R. charges on our beautiful bell of 600 
lb. from St. Mark's, Philadelphia, which arrived a 
couple of weeks ago, and was rung for the first 
time last Sunday. Went to R. R. office and paid the 
bill. Busied myself with getting up nice luncheon 
for Webster. Went with him to the train with Miss 
Peters and Julia, and then rushed to the P. O. to 
see if a letter was there for him. As I arrived at 
the P. O. the train started, and I missed a regular 
good-bye but I had shaken his finger and given him 
a God-bless-you fearing I might not see him. The 
women were in an awful state and when they got 
home cried heartily. We shall not soon see his like 
again for kindness, love and cheerfulness and sym- 
pathy. God bless him ! How lonely my old vestry 
seems tonight without him ! Called in and chatted 
a little while with Mr. Williams, who is trying hard 
to get his paper started again — it was suspended by 
Webster in absence of Mr. Williams who was in 
Washington; stayed six or eight weeks without 
giving W. any instructions, in fact, no one here 
knew what had become of him. No Wame rests 

• —118— 



upon Webster as he did the best he could and 
worked night and day to the last, and well sustained 
the editorial department. It was the best and most 
dignified paper we had and it was a great sorrow to 
me to have it closed. I hope it will be resuscitated. 
George Hunter announced to Miss Peters that he 
would not take charge of the school house any more. 
We had just expended a great deal of care, labor, 
and money on his sick mother, and just clothed him 
up nicely and he showed his gratitude, in which he 
seemed to have been joined by his mother, by turn- 
ing his back upon us. He got $i.oo per week and 
his schooling free. Another exemplification that 
"It is impossible to make a silk purse out of a sow's 
ear." I had to go and sweep out the school room. 
I then went to his mother intending to talk matters 
over with her a little. The old woman in charge 
said she was sleeping so I just slipped in, took down 
a coat and pants just furnished George last week, 
which the ladies had made, and carried them home, 
thinking I could make a better disposition of them. 
Mr. LeFeare came and sat the evening with us so 
that we could not be very blue. Wrote note to Web- 
ster after coming to vestry room, to enclose in let- 
ter received for him. Little snow this afternoon 
and evening. 

April 27th. At breakfast the ladies had set the 
table as if for Webster, and we of course fell to 
talking about him. I produced the letter and read 
it and we cried all around. Wrote to Mrs. Fallon 
to thank her and tell her about the beautiful bell of 
600 lbs., which through her was sent us, and which 
I got up so as to ring it a week ago last Sunday. 
Helped the ladies to wash in afternoon. Mrs. Tal- 
bot brought Rose Taylor and I said a few words to 
her with reference to Confirmation. Stained the 

^119— 



desks at the school house. Got Clarence Talbot to 
take charge of school house instead of George H. 

April 28th. Wrote to Mrs. Blackhurst on Big 
Thompson about sending me up some trees for 
church lot. To Bishop Randall about attempting to 
secure the lot next to the church for church pur- 
poses. To Mr. Saul Abel of Chester Valley to 
thank him for his efforts in securing some subscrip- 
tions for the bell among my old friends at St. Paul's 
and a couple at Downington. Mrs. Davis and Mrs. 
Gosline were at the church when I came over, so I 
spoke to Mrs. G. about Confirmation. Called on 
Mr. Heeker, the N. R. R. Agent. Sat little while 
with Judge Williams, g^lad to learn he is about 
started again. God prosper him. Examining a box 
of clothing belonging to Webster I almost shed tears, 
he is so dear to me and he is gone ! Read ''Martin 
Chuzzlewit" awhile to ladies. Raining as I came 
over to vestry tonight. 

April 29th. Took letter to the train this morn- 
ing. Met Mr. Jos. A. Evans. Told me Mr. Cor- 
nell had come down to see me. So I rushed back 
and found him just coming from the house. Took 
him to "Star" office to get some printing done, and 
then came and spent day at vestry room talking 
over various matters. Avoided discussing some of 
his recent acts which were very disagreeable to me 
although he brought them up several times. Took 
him over to dinner and the thought occurred to me, 
''Oh, how can I bear to see that man sitting in Ami's 
place at dinner!" Sister it seems had thought the 
same, and has asked Miss Peters to take it, so we 
were all relieved. Hurried him off to the train to 
which he barely came in time. Received note from 
Ami from Wasatch written at 5 a. m. yesterday 
morning. Owing to recent snows he did not go to 

— 120 — 



Sweetwater as he expected. Wrote him this even- 
ing and having ascertained to my great surprise that 
he had never even been baptised, I took occasion to 
write him somewhat on religious matters. We had 
several short conversations on religious matters but 
he never mentioned that fact and I took it for 
granted, and especially as his grandfather was the 
first native-born American who became a Methodist 
minister and was quite prominent. It would have 
been an unutterable joy to have received Ami into 
the church. May God yet give him grace to confess 
Christ before men. Read awhile to the ladies. 

April 30th. Letter from Rev. Mr. Reilly giving 
me a very good account of my protege, John Robin- 
son, which was very gratifying. Choir meeting in 
evening. Enjoyed the singing in a melancholy soirt 
of way. It was very good, but at same time disposed 
me to gloomy thoughts of my loss. Mr. and Mrs. 
Davis, Mr. Newton, Miss Peters and sister sat 
awhile in vestry afterwards. Sent note to Cornell 
urging him tO' put ofif laying corner stone until 
Bishop Randall comes out. Walked out to Fort 
about noon. Dined with Dr. Alden, who after- 
wards examined me for life insurance. Called on 
Mr. Tuttle and notified him of the laying of the 
corner stone. Spent some time at Mr. Woolley's. 
Discussed the action of vestry at late meeting. De- 
termined we could not consent to their proposition 
to sell the materials for a Rectory and huy a house 
to move upon the church lot to fix up for Rectory, 
and apply the surplus, if any, to the back salary. 
Mr. W. promises me 60 bushels of lime towards a 
granite house and that he will see me through 
with it. 

May 1st. Beautiful day. Miss Peters' birthday. 
Gave her a little set of jewelry. Prepared for Sun- 

— 121 — 



day. Planted out the remains of box of roots, 
which I brought out from the East with me. Left 
them with Dr. Girard, at his request, and he has 
allowed them to perish. In afternoon walked out 
to Col. Carling's camp with the ladies and gathered 
flowers and cactus bulbs. Called on Mr. McMinn 
to get plans for Rectory but found that he was still 
suffering from weak eyes and has been unable to 
do anything with them. Took the rough sketches 
to work out myself. Quite tired in evening. 

May 2nd. Fifth Sunday after Easter. Casey is 
so miserable as a sexton I was obliged to do many 
little things myself to have things decent. Good con- 
gregation in morning and goodly number at S. Com 
Ami subject of my earnest petitions at that S. Feast. 
After S. S. almost exhausted. Had to rest awhile. 
Talked with considerable ease at evening service on 
the Creed as the barrier which Ancient Church set 
up against heresy. Wrote note to Mr. Tuttle to 
prepare for the laying of corner stone, having heard 
from Cornell that he will not put off. 

May 3rd. Very busy all morning seeing people 
about various work and projects. Helped the 
ladies wash in afternoon. Wearied out at night. 

May 4th. George Hunter came before I was up 
to say that his mother died very early this morn- 
ing ! Poor boy ! Told me on the way over that it 
was not his fault that he left caring for the school 
room, but that it was his mother's doings. Worked 
hard all day long packing up and settling her af- 
fairs and getting things ready for her burial. Got 
her in her coffin at dark and sent her over to the 
church. Helped Julia to make out the monthly re- 
ports of the school, kept us until after 10:00 o'clock 
p. m. Wrote -to Mrs. Hunter's husband and to one 

— 122 — 



daughter. Gave George home with myself for the 
present. Utterly exhausted. 

May 5th. Beautiful day. Took George over to 
the church to see his mother before people came so 
I could close the coffin. He could not bear to look 
at her. Acted part of sexton and undertaker. Ser- 
vice at 10:00 o'clock. After funeral had talk with 
George and told him what I wished with reference 
to him, and wanted him to say whether he wished 
to stay with me. He did not know what is for the 
best. At his request wrote to another sister from 
whom he received a letter this morning. Wrote 
letter to Williard at Sidney to invite him to come to 
confirmation with my candidates. Received note 
from Mr. Nichols offering to take George as mes- 
senger for telegraph office. Got ready for Laramie 
this evening so tired^I can scarcely go. After went 
home to dinner. Mrs. Arnold came to me to tell me 
that George's sister had arrived and was at her 
house in an awful state of grief at the intelligence 
of her mother's death. Not the one to whom we 
telegraphed and wrote. Bolted my dinner and 
rushed off to see her before going tO' the train. 
Seems a gentle nice woman. Sorry for the poor 
creature. Met Mr. and Mrs. Tuttle on the train. 
After arrived at Laramie we went to hear Cornell's 
lecture on the S. land and the East. Very little that 
is new. Extemporaneous and containing a good 
many grammatical errors. Two hours long. Stopped 
while at Mr. Ivinson's afterwards. 

Ascension Day, May 6th. Procession formed at 
Mr. Ivinson's. Mr. Cornell commenced the service. 
I laid the corner stone and said the collects for 
Ascension Day and St. Matthew's Day and the 
prayer after the act. Addresses were made by Mr. 



123- 



Tuttle, myself, and Cornell. Everything passed off 
pleasantly. Dined with Mr. L, as could not get 
away in afternoon as I expected, took tea with Dr. 
Latham. Went into Mr. Ivinson's and found a 
rehearsal going on for a May-day picnic on Mon- 
day. The children reciting their pieces and singing, 
was quite pleased. Visited the public school and 
addressed the children. As I came out Willey 
Pointer seized my hand and said, ''I wish you would 
stay here, and let Mr. Cornell go down there." In 
evening got an opportunity and talked to John 
Reichard with reference to connecting himself with 
the church. Seems favorably disposed, but pleads 
ignorance of the church at present. Engaged to 
send him some reading matter. 

May 7th. Came down on morning train with 
Mr. Ivinson and Dr. Latham. After breakfast sent 
for George's sister to come over to the church and 
pack his trunk and talk over her mother's affairs. 
Very much pleased with the poor woman. Thinks 
best to take George with her. Wrote letter of in- 
troduction for George to Mr. Jennings, Rector of 
church in Central. Got everything fixed up. Letter 
from Bishop Randall telling me his plan and when 
he will arrive. Called on Mrs. Shakespeare to see 
if she is coimng to confirmation. Found she has 
been baptized. Called on Mrs. Post for same ob- 
ject in evening and had long talk. George and sis- 
ter came to the church and we talked a good while. 
Urged her to take stand for Christ and to strive to 
lead George in the right way. Gov. and Secretary 
and Chief Justice arrived. 

May 8th. Got George and sister off on the 
morning coach. Cleaned up my vestry room and 
turned my carpet. Prepared for Sunday. In after- 
noon there was a demonstration to welcome our new 

— 124 — 



territorial officers and to celebrate the finishing of the 
R. R. through to the Pacific Coast, though the last 
rail will not be laid until next Monday. A heavy 
dash of rain coming on fire Con and citizens as- 
sembled in McDaniel's Hall and listened to a few 
words from Gov. Campbell and General Lee, Sec. 
of Wyoming, and Judge Hower, Chief Justice. I 
am much pleased with the appearance of them all. 
They look like pleasant gentlemen. The Gov. and. 
Secretary went off on the evening train. Called on 
Judge Hower, but missed him. Sat a while with 
Sherman and Wilson (Posey) at the Bank. 

Sunday after Ascension, May 9th. Tolerably 
pleasant day with a little rain. Preached on the 
objections and hindrances of confirmation in the 
morning, and talked about monasticism in the even- 
ing. Small S. S. Charlie Bell present at service 
and S. S. Asked him to stay after S. S. Had talk 
with him about confirmation. Had no reason why 
he should not be confirmed. Hope he will be. 

(the end.) 



■125— 



Appendix 

Two Letters of the Rev. John Cor- 
nell, First Rector of St. Matthew's 
Church, Laramie, Addressed to 
Bishop Thomas 




The Rev. John Cornell, first Rector 
of St. Matthew's, Laramie, as he 
appeared in 1868. 



The Waldorf-Astoria, 
Xew York, Feb. 14, 1912. 
My Dear Bishop: 

I have yours of February 9th, and I would say in 
reply, the papers and data I have concerning Wyo- 



■12 



ming are my Diary (during that time), Bishop Ran- 
dall's reports and perhaps Bishop Talbot's. All 
these are at my farm in the country near Newport 
Where I reside in the summer. The reports of your 
predecessors I presume you have. I will give you 
some of my personal remembrances and much of 
this will probably not be new to you. 

I was moved by Bishop Randall's appeal for 
young men to go West and put myself at his dis- 
posal. As I was then young and unmarried he said 
he could send me to this hardest field (Laramie, 
Wyoming Territory), from which I was to report 
to him. I started in the fall of 1868. On arriving 
at Cheyenne, on my way there, I was met by Rev. 
J. W. Cook. He told me he had arranged with 
Bishop Randall to have an associate mission at 
Cheyenne of which he was the head and I the tail, 
and I was to reside there under his orders. I had 
not so understood the Bishop's orders, but stopped 
in Cheyenne, writing to Bishop Randall for instruc- 
tions. In the interim of an answer, Mr. Cook and 
myself went to Laramie and held services and 
visited the people. He tried to explain to them the 
advantages of his proposed associate mission, chief 
among which was they could thus retain his ser- 
vices, but the people who wished a resident minister 
suggested he should come to Laramie and reside or 
that I should. I heard from Bishop Randall later, 
and he said I had correctly understood his instruc- 
tions. So I went there and began work. I was the 
first resident minister, but not the pioneer. Mr. 
Cook who had done a very successful work at Chey- 
enne, had also accomplished much at Laramie, and 
Bishop Randall was before him. We began service 
regularly in a log cabin which also served as the 
public school during the week. A better (frame 
building) school house was subsequently built in 

—127— 



which we also held services. The first few original 
services were held in the parlor of the Laramie 
Hotel, or the large dining room. But that not being 
convenient for the hotel (at ii a. m.) we did not 
hold our services there after my work began, though 
dances were held there about once a week in the 
hotel for the benefit of the church. These I stopped. 
We began with two communicants, Mrs. Ivinson, 
still there (I think) and a young man, Mr. Batche- 
lor, who died while I was there. While at Lara- 
mie I started missionary work at Rawlins. I bap- 
tised some children there. The people seemed much 
interested, so I organized a Parish and was elected 
Rector and I think took some means to build a 
chapel. For this I received a very severe letter 
from Air. Cook. He considered it was in his parish 
(though he had to pass mine to get to it) and he 
had started services there. I asked him if he con- 
sidered himself responsible for it, why he did not 
hold service there, and he said, "Don't you know 
I haven't the time?" I said I did [not] suppose he 
wanted to be "the dog in the manger," still I could 
discontinue services there if he would go. So I 
abandoned it. I don't think he found time to go 
and the work came to an end, though subsequently 
revived. I also started work at Carbon mines. A 
Mr. Wardwell, the owner or manager, took much 
interest in the mission. There were then Welsh and 
English miners there. The mission seemed so 
promising I got Bishop Randall to appoint a resi- 
dent missionary there (a Mr. Fitman). Had he 
been the right one, the fit man, for the place it 
might have prospered. He had been a Romist 
Priest, and though quite a popular preacher, lacked 
good judgment and patience, and the mission was a 
failure, though one of my successors in Laramie 
(Mr. Baum) subsequently tried to revive it and 

—128— 



built a church there, or moved the Cheyenne church 
building there. But he was not a success, I under- 
stand. Both he and Mr. Fitman were deposed from 
the ministry subsequently. I also commenced work 
at a neighboring town, Wyoming Station, near Lar- 
amie. We had good congregations there. Bishop 
Randall visited the place. I raised some money to 
build a chapel, or rather buy a saloon and turn it 
into a Church, but afterward I told Bishop Ran- 
dall I thought the town was going down and it was 
useless to have a church there. But he said, "You 
go ahead and raise what money you can, and I will 
give the rest." So we bought the "Progressive Sa- 
loon," and turned it into a Church. Bishop Ran- 
dall was there and we opened the Chapel with a 
good congregation and flying colors. Still, all that 
is now left of the town is the railroad depot, and the 
other buildings, including the Chapel, have disap- 
peared. So you see my missionary work in parts 
adjacent did not accomplish much. I visited once 
or twice Fort Laramie about lOO miles north, and 
held services there which seemed much appreciated 
by the officers and their families. I don't think the 
-soldiers attended. Bishop Randall also directed me 
to go to the Sweetwater region, South Pass City, I 
think. The journey was from Bryan on the U. P. 
R. R. by open wagon for a day or two. These jour- 
neys for some reason (unknown to me) were in 
winter, the thermometer at times about 20 degrees 
below zero. I thought it would be the death of me, 
and it was of one of my successors (Mr. Stewart), 
whose bones rest there now, and I think it was also 
of Bishop Randall. For he took the journey there 
once himself (I suppose in winter) and on his re- 
turn he was so exhausted and feeble that he died 
soon after. 



— 129- 



I remained three or four years at Laramie. 1 
had some opportunities to take other work, but at 
the end of three years I had an opportunity to go to 
CaHfornia, and I told Bishop Randall I had staid 
longer than I agreed, but on account of the intensely 
cold winters I hoped he would agree to my leaving 
him for California. He did not see how I could 
turn my back on such needs as his Diocese pre- 
sented, and offered to give me a position at Santa 
Fe, New Mexico, where I went, his Diocese includ- 
ing Colorado, Wyoming and New Mexico. That 
ended my work in Laramie and Wyoming. A 
church was built there and the money, or part of it, 
raised for a rectory. The money was partly raised 
to enclose a cem'etery, the town would give us the 
land. I thought the sale of burial lots and fees 
would be an endowment to the Parish. Money was 
raised to build a chapel at Carbon. I asked Mr. 
Baum, my successor, how the cemetery fund was 
progressing. He said the Vestry had voted it to him 
for his travelling expenses. Thus it is so Church 
funds are often misappropriated. Bishop Randall 
was a real missionary and an ideal Bishop, a strong 
Churchman but much opposed to ritualism. He 
asked me how I got up such confirmation classes. I 
said he did it, his timely visits and stirring addresses 
shook the tree, and I had only to gather up the fruit. 
His reports were a little sensational. When we 
bought a saloon at Wyoming Station and turned it 
into a chapel he made quite a flaming report of it 
and said for once "the Progressive Saloon" had 
progressed in the right direction and turned into a 
Church. The Church got a pretty good foothold in 
Laramie. The neighboring Fort Sanders was a 
great 'help to us. Some of the officers served as 
vestry men. We were the pioneers there and for a 
long time had it all to ourselves. The Presbyterians, 

—130— 



then the Baptists and then the Methodists came, but 
each one seemed to strengthen our work. Bishop 
Talbot considered it such a strong point that he 
made it his Cathedral town. I made a great mis- 
take in not securing more property, but at one time 
some supposed Laramie was going the way of many 
railroad towns, and be virtually abandoned. 

Please excuse this long letter. I will be glad to 
answer any questions I can. 

Respectfully yours, 

John Corne:li,. 

P. S. Since I left Laramie, I have been recalled 
by the people, and afterwards Bishop Talbot offered 
me the Deanery of the Cathedral. Regretted I could 
not accept. I started a Parish Register, but under- 
stood it was lost. 

Rev. Mr. Cook left Cheyenne to be missionary to 
the Indians, in whom he was much interested. He 
was succeeded by a Mr. Barstow. I was succeeded 
by Rev. W. H. Baum. The land for the Church (a 
half square) was given us by the railroad company. 



Tut Waldorf-Astoria, 
Nkw York, March 27, 1912. 
My Dear Bishop: 

Since writing you last, I have received your kind 
letter, also received your fine picture and Diocesan 
Paper. I enclose my picture taken about the time I 
was at Laramie, though I looked much younger than 
I really was.''' 

I have since been to my farm and got my diaries 
for those years 1868-71 and looked them over. 
They quite bring back the events of over forty years 
ago. I don't know if they will much interest you. 

I arrived at Cheyenne November 26th, 1868, 

*A cut of this picture appears at the head of the appendix, 
—131— 



stopped Avith Rev. Joseph W. Cook till Sunday, No- 
vember 29th (first Sunday in Advent) when after 
officiating at Cheyenne in the morning we went to 
Laramie and officiated there. I preached. That 
was my first appearance at Laramie. I continued to 
hold services in the Hotel Parlor and Public School 
Building. Also held sendee at various points on the 

railroad, occasionally exchanged with Rev. . 

Having a free pass over the Road, it did not cost 
much, being generally entertained by the people 
where I went. The first note I have of Rawlins is 
April 8, 1869. The prospects seemed so good, I or- 
ganized a vestry. Mr. Cook thought the place be- 
longed to him, so I agreed not to go there if he 
would look after it. But I don't think he found 
time, and the Presbyterians came in and built a 
Church which I found there January 23rd, 1871, in 
which I officiated that Sunday after holding service 
in Ft. Steele the day before, many of the people of 
Ft. Steele coming to the service at Rawlins. There 
was then a Methodist chaplain (named Regan) at 
Ft. Steele. Mr. Cook had then left Cheyenne and 
gone to be a missionary to the Indians. The Rev. 
Barstow succeeded him. Also I officiated at Car- 
bon, a coal region, Bryan, Evanston, ^Medicine Bow, 
and Wyoming Station. Considerable interest was 
developed in these places, especially Carbon and 
Wyoming. At Carbon the manager gave consider- 
able inducement to placing a missionary there and 
subscribed the last $100 to building a church. This 
was never called for. Mr. Fitman was sent there 
before or after his appointment at South Pass City, 
but he did not seem to be the fit man for either 
place. His wife too was a disadvantage. I held ser- 
vice at Laramie Sunday a. m. and evening in the 
school house and sometimes in the afternoon at Ft. 
vSanders. The U. S. officers and men and their fam- 

—132— 



ilies were helpful to my work and very hospitable. 
The Government sent a Methodist chaplain there, 
after which I stopped holding services there. But 
the people came from there to Church at Laramie. 
I had a Monday Bible Class and occasional week 
day services at Laramie. Prayer Meetings were 
held at different houses not under my control, but 
was invited to take part and sometimes preside, 
which I did. A Methodist doctor (Hilton), a local 
preacher, held services Sunday p. m. in the school- 
house. He was an Englishman and dropped and 
misplaced his ''h" and did not command very much 
respect. Still the people seemed contented with 
their religious privileges. Still after we got in the 
Church, great efforts were made 'by outside mission- 
ary district secretaries, etc., to place their denomina- 
tions there. In some cases, their churches were built 
and ministers supported from outside. In fact. 
Bishop Randall paid my salary, $ioo per month, on 
condition they would build a church, and he con- 
tributed part of the money to build the church. 
After the church was built, at my suggestion, he 
lowered my salary, for the people to raise the rest. 
I also got them to contribute to missions and 
started three funds : a rectory fund, a graveyard 
fund (to enclose a cemetery for the Church) and 
make it a revenue to the Parish, and a Church 
Building Fund for Carbon. In fact during my 
visit East I collected some money for the Church 
building and rectory fund. On my departure I 
(fortunately) gave Blishop Randall the rectory 
fund. The Carbon Fund I gave to Mr. Fitman, 
who contrary to my ideas attempted to build a stone 
church, the stone being plenty there, but after some 
digging and quarrying the stone was found unsuit- 
able and abandoned. My successor, Rev. W. H. 
Baum, attempted to move the old Cheyenne Church 

—133— 



to Carbon. I don't know how it resulted, but don't 
think it was a success. Still, it did not make 
much difference as the miners there were re- 
placed by Chinese, and for all I know the place 
is now" abandoned. Also Wyoming Station, where 
we had a chapel. I do not recollect how much 
these funds amounted to. I gave the graveyard 
fund to the vestry, and they to Mr. Baum, who 
spent it on his travelling expenses. I do not recol- 
lect how much the church cost. Mr. Ivinson, who 
was treasurer, may have the accounts, but they 
don't seem to have preserved much at Laramie. 
I tried to keep its Parish register accurately and 
fill in blank for history of Parish. But on my 
visit to Laramie some years after, I could find no 
trace of Parish register nor my picture I had given 
them for V^estry room. The church cost more than 
it should. A Mr. Evans, who had contracted to 
furnish the stone, and I think build bridges for the 
U. P. R. R., offered to give us the stone cut and 
ready to build the Church, and tried to get the Rail- 
road Superintendent (Snyder) to transport the 
stone to Laramie free. This he would not do, and 
the freight would make the cost too great, so we 
abandoned it, and the timber, ordered ready to put 
up from Chicago with the understanding it should 
be sent freight free. This was a disappointment 
for we had to pay $800 freight. The -cornerstone 
of the Church was laid Ascension Day, May 5, 1869. 
Rev. Joseph W. Cook of Cheyenne and Chaplain 
Tuttle of Ft. D. A. Russell officiating with the Rec- 
tor, and all made addresses. Bishop Randall could 
not come, but came Whitsunday, May i6th, his 
first confirmation there, six confirmed, among them 
Major and Mrs. Ferris, who were so useful to us. 
Bishop Randall visited Wyoming Station at the 
same time and seemed much encouraged with it. I 

—134— 



thought I saw its downfall. The church at Lara- 
mie was consecrated by Bishop Randall, September 
21, 1869, St. Matthew's Day. December i8th, 
1870 (Fourth Sunday in Advent), I visited Atlantic 
city a. m. and South Pass City for night service. 
There was I think a log chapel at the latter. It was 
a two days journey in open wagon from Bryan, and 
a very cold and trying journey with zero weather. 
A similar journey subsequently cost Bishop Ran- 
dall his life, also one of my successors, the Rev. Mr. 
Stewart who is, I think, buried there. The way 
was through a very desolate and unsettled country. 
The only time I have ever seen wolves running wild 
was that journey. I froze my ears very badly. The 
day the Church was consecrated I received a call to 
Michigan and wanted to go. Bishop Randall per- 
suaded me to stay a year longer. I received another 
call to California which I wanted to accept. But 
the Bishop promised if I would stay in his Diocese 
he would give me the place with the finest climate in 
the world, e. g., Santa Fe, New Mexico, in his Dio- 
cese then. So I accepted and started August 8, 
1871. 

When I left I saw Baptist, Methodist and Presby- 
terian resident ministers at Laramie. Still, being on 
the ground first was an advantage for, like most 
missionaries, I saw the process ; first the idea that 
there was no religion in prayers with a book ; then 
attendance on Church service because the only one 
in the place ; then learning to like it ; then when 
their own Church came, finding ours was more like 
Church and worship than their own, and identifying 
themselves with us. Still, the after history of some 
of these was disappointing and humiliating. Even 
Major Ferris, who seemed a bright and shining 
light and such an example for the Church, was a 
disappointment. He was ordered to another Post 

—135— 



and left before me, and entre nous his wife told me 
after his death, "Sam was all right while he was 
with you, but when he left you he went back to his 
old ways." And for the work done along the Rail- 
road there is very little to show, unless the prayers 
of the Church and the preaching of the Gospel may 
have done good. Let us hope it has. 

I supposed the Bishop was responsible for the 
services of the Cathedral. But after reading your 
letter I admit I don't know\ At any rate, if you 
survive me (as you probably will for I have passed 
my three score and ten) you may say to those con- 
cerned, the Cathedral would have got more from me 
in life (I have not given anything to it since it has 
been disfigured with Roman candles) and some- 
thing in death if they had abstained from candles in 
worship. I have visited Laramie twice since I left 
it, on my w^ay to Colorado and California. I think 
I have seen the Cathedral and thought it too good 
for the place. It was, I think, burnt inside, having 
taken fire from the Roman candles when I saw it. 
Let us hope they will abandon those Church play- 
things and earthly toys and heathen symbols ( a trib- 
ute to the fire worshippers probably). I will send 
you a paper The American Citizen, which I hope 
you will open carefully and find picture and also 
read paper. Please don't let your Secretary put it in 
the paper box before you see it, as sometimes hap- 
pens with things one sends Bishops. 

Please excuse this long letter, but you asked for 
items about my life in Laramie. Will be glad to 
answer any question I can. 

Very truly and respectfully yours, 

John Cornell. 
To The Rt. Rev. Nathaniel Seymour 
Thomas, D. D. 

Bishop of Wyoming. 

—136— 



Bishop Talbot was coilsiderate enough to have an 
honest, four-legged Communion Table in the 
Cathedral at my request. And when I remonstrated 
with him about the Roman candles he said it was 
my fault, for if I had accepted the position of Dean 
of the Cathedral I might have kept them out. lUic 
he did not like to forbid the then Dean. 



.^7- 



I v^^,n^ 



